EP2066261B1 - Machine for filling artificial insemination straws with semen - Google Patents

Machine for filling artificial insemination straws with semen Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP2066261B1
EP2066261B1 EP07820086.2A EP07820086A EP2066261B1 EP 2066261 B1 EP2066261 B1 EP 2066261B1 EP 07820086 A EP07820086 A EP 07820086A EP 2066261 B1 EP2066261 B1 EP 2066261B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
straws
notches
machine
hopper
station
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP07820086.2A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2066261B2 (en
EP2066261A1 (en
Inventor
Pascal Lecointe
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Cryo Vet SAS
Original Assignee
Cryo Vet SAS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=38016740&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=EP2066261(B1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by Cryo Vet SAS filed Critical Cryo Vet SAS
Publication of EP2066261A1 publication Critical patent/EP2066261A1/en
Publication of EP2066261B1 publication Critical patent/EP2066261B1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2066261B2 publication Critical patent/EP2066261B2/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61D—VETERINARY INSTRUMENTS, IMPLEMENTS, TOOLS, OR METHODS
    • A61D19/00—Instruments or methods for reproduction or fertilisation
    • A61D19/02—Instruments or methods for reproduction or fertilisation for artificial insemination
    • A61D19/022—Containers for animal semen, e.g. pouches or vials ; Methods or apparatus for treating or handling animal semen containers, e.g. filling or closing
    • A61D19/024—Tube-like containers, e.g. straws
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B3/00—Packaging plastic material, semiliquids, liquids or mixed solids and liquids, in individual containers or receptacles, e.g. bags, sacks, boxes, cartons, cans, or jars
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61D—VETERINARY INSTRUMENTS, IMPLEMENTS, TOOLS, OR METHODS
    • A61D19/00—Instruments or methods for reproduction or fertilisation
    • A61D19/02—Instruments or methods for reproduction or fertilisation for artificial insemination
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C65/02—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure
    • B29C65/08—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using ultrasonic vibrations
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
    • B29C66/05—Particular design of joint configurations
    • B29C66/10—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint cross-sections
    • B29C66/11—Joint cross-sections comprising a single joint-segment, i.e. one of the parts to be joined comprising a single joint-segment in the joint cross-section
    • B29C66/112—Single lapped joints
    • B29C66/1122—Single lap to lap joints, i.e. overlap joints
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/40—General aspects of joining substantially flat articles, e.g. plates, sheets or web-like materials; Making flat seams in tubular or hollow articles; Joining single elements to substantially flat surfaces
    • B29C66/41—Joining substantially flat articles ; Making flat seams in tubular or hollow articles
    • B29C66/43—Joining a relatively small portion of the surface of said articles
    • B29C66/431—Joining the articles to themselves
    • B29C66/4312—Joining the articles to themselves for making flat seams in tubular or hollow articles, e.g. transversal seams
    • B29C66/43121—Closing the ends of tubular or hollow single articles, e.g. closing the ends of bags
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/814—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/8141—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined
    • B29C66/81411—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined characterised by its cross-section, e.g. transversal or longitudinal, being non-flat
    • B29C66/81421—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined characterised by its cross-section, e.g. transversal or longitudinal, being non-flat being convex or concave
    • B29C66/81423—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined characterised by its cross-section, e.g. transversal or longitudinal, being non-flat being convex or concave being concave
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/814—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/8141—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined
    • B29C66/81433—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined being toothed, i.e. comprising several teeth or pins, or being patterned
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B29C66/84—Specific machine types or machines suitable for specific applications
    • B29C66/843—Machines for making separate joints at the same time in different planes; Machines for making separate joints at the same time mounted in parallel or in series
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B29C66/84—Specific machine types or machines suitable for specific applications
    • B29C66/843—Machines for making separate joints at the same time in different planes; Machines for making separate joints at the same time mounted in parallel or in series
    • B29C66/8432—Machines for making separate joints at the same time mounted in parallel or in series
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C57/00—Shaping of tube ends, e.g. flanging, belling or closing; Apparatus therefor, e.g. collapsible mandrels
    • B29C57/10—Closing
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/40—General aspects of joining substantially flat articles, e.g. plates, sheets or web-like materials; Making flat seams in tubular or hollow articles; Joining single elements to substantially flat surfaces
    • B29C66/41—Joining substantially flat articles ; Making flat seams in tubular or hollow articles
    • B29C66/43—Joining a relatively small portion of the surface of said articles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/70—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material
    • B29C66/71—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the composition of the plastics material of the parts to be joined
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/814—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps
    • B29C66/8141—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined
    • B29C66/81411—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined characterised by its cross-section, e.g. transversal or longitudinal, being non-flat
    • B29C66/81421—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined characterised by its cross-section, e.g. transversal or longitudinal, being non-flat being convex or concave
    • B29C66/81422—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined characterised by its cross-section, e.g. transversal or longitudinal, being non-flat being convex or concave being convex
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
    • B29C66/83—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof characterised by the movement of the joining or pressing tools
    • B29C66/832—Reciprocating joining or pressing tools
    • B29C66/8322—Joining or pressing tools reciprocating along one axis
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29K—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES B29B, B29C OR B29D, RELATING TO MOULDING MATERIALS OR TO MATERIALS FOR MOULDS, REINFORCEMENTS, FILLERS OR PREFORMED PARTS, e.g. INSERTS
    • B29K2027/00—Use of polyvinylhalogenides or derivatives thereof as moulding material
    • B29K2027/06—PVC, i.e. polyvinylchloride
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
    • B29L2023/00—Tubular articles
    • B29L2023/005—Hoses, i.e. flexible
    • B29L2023/007—Medical tubes other than catheters

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a machine for filling seeds with artificial insemination flakes.
  • the seed is an animal seed, for example bovine, such as diluted bull semen.
  • It relates more specifically to such a machine, of the kind comprising a hopper for storing empty straws, a straw filling station, and a transport device provided with flake receiving and holding members and suitable for conveying flakes. taken from the hopper to present them at the filling station.
  • Machines of this type are described for example in the documents FR-2 700 313 and US 4,478,261 , according to which the conveyor is a grooved rotary drum and CH 533 542 according to which the conveyor consists of several moving endless belts, also grooved.
  • WO 2009/044043 and "SpermNotes - The International A1 Newsletter from Minit ⁇ ob No. 10/2005, October 17, 2005” also relates to machines in which the carrier comprises alternating housing of different sizes.
  • the grooves ensure the reception of flakes from the hopper, their transfer to the filling station, and their maintenance during filling.
  • the carriers operate step by step, so that a straw, or a group of flakes, is immobilized at the filling station during this operation.
  • Such a machine is generally suitable for filling straws, one of the two ends, said distal, is closed by a plug initially permeable to air, but able to become sealed when soaked with a liquid.
  • the stopper consists for example of a polyvinyl alcohol powder interposed between two fibrous material pads.
  • the filling station comprises means for introducing seed at the opposite or "proximal" end, straws, as well as suction means for the seed making their distal end through the porous plugs.
  • the plug In contact with the seed, or a certain amount of non-spermicidal intermediate liquid, in accordance with the teachings of the FR 2,810,535 , the plug hardens and becomes impervious, sealingly sealing the distal end.
  • a closure station Downstream of the filling station is a closure station for the proximal end of the flakes, this closure being generally by ultrasonic welding.
  • the flakes After filling and closing, the flakes are released from the carrier and collected in an ad hoc receptacle.
  • the flakes commonly used are thin cylindrical tubes made of flexible and transparent plastic material, such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride) in particular.
  • a main objective of the invention is to propose a machine of the kind described above of polyvalent nature, which is capable of processing these two categories of glitter, without the passage of the one to the other categories entails for the significant intervention operator.
  • Another object of the invention is to provide a machine that is compact, reliable, easy to use and capable of working at a high rate.
  • This machine is adapted to treat at least two categories of flakes having different diameters, the flake receiving and holding members of which the carrier is equipped being subdivided into at least two distinct series that can be selectively used, one of the two series being shaped to fit flakes of large diameter, while the members of the other series are shaped to fit small flakes.
  • a feeding device for a machine to fill tubes It is a chain device, able to transport tubes of different diameters.
  • the transport chains comprise receiving members which consist of a pair of spaced-apart wafers. When changing the tube diameter, it is necessary to adjust this spacing, playing on the relative positions of two adjacent chains.
  • the set of receiving members is used for transport, regardless of the diameter of the tubes concerned.
  • said transporter is endless, and each series of organs of a given category is composed of several groups formed of a number of adjacent organs, the groups of a given category being alternated with those of the other, the filling station being designed to simultaneously fill the batch of flakes supported by a group of adjacent members, and the machine comprises an electric motor controlled by a computer and operating stepwise, configured to drive the carrier with successive and repeated phases of advance, of a small step equal to the value of spacing between two adjacent organs, then of a big step, of amplitude multiple of that of the small step, then of a stopping phase .
  • the machine 1 as illustrated in particular on Figures 1 to 6 comprises a number of devices and equipment which will be reported only major, which have a direct relationship with the present invention, so as not to unnecessarily burden the description.
  • It comprises a fixed frame 10 adapted to support a removable and interchangeable hopper 2 containing flakes, a rotatable carrier barrel 3, a station 4 for introducing a non-spermicidal liquid into the flakes, a station 5 serving to fill the flakes with seed, an ultrasonic welding station 6 at one end of the flakes and a receptacle 100 collecting the flakes filled and welded.
  • the hopper 2 intended to contain flakes to be filled has the general shape of a rectangular parallelepiped box, open on the top and whose bottom is materialized by a pair of parallel linear guides (flat rods) inclined 20.
  • the width of this box is very slightly greater than the length of the straws, which are placed batchwise in the hopper on the guides 20, perpendicular to them.
  • reference 26 designates two transverse rods serving as spacers for the guides 20 and ensuring their attachment to the side walls 22 of the hopper.
  • each rod 21 is articulated in the upper part about an axis 210 carried by a wall 22.
  • a pin / light guide system 212 limits the amplitude of this joint.
  • the lever 21 is provided with a spoiler 211 directed towards the front.
  • each guide 20 is more inclined than its main portion, and the lower end portion of each lever 21 is tapered, so that its lower edge has the same inclination.
  • a hopper to set up a hopper on the machine, it is positioned between two lateral cheeks 11 integral with the frame 10.
  • the hopper 2 is provided, on the outside of each of its side walls 22, a pair of nipples centering and retaining means 220, 221, adapted to be housed in open upwardly flared notches in said cheeks 11.
  • the hopper is retained by these nipples, which are supported at the bottom of the notches, in a well-defined position, illustrated on the figure 7 .
  • the two channels 200 form a glitter outlet chute.
  • the output flakes is then controlled by a pair of levers 7, connected by spacers, each articulated around a transverse axis 700 integral with the frame; they have a free upper end 701 in finger shape.
  • a control member 70 such as a jack or an electromagnet, is connected to a cross member which connects the lower ends of this set of levers and can impart to them an oscillating movement, symbolized by the double arrow Y on the figure 14 , to rotate them together, in one direction or the other, around the axis 700.
  • Nail / light guide systems 702 limit the amplitude of this joint.
  • Each lever 7 is positioned towards the inside of the hopper, relative to a guide 20, close to it.
  • the fingers 701 close off or, on the contrary, release the two outlet channels 200 from the hopper.
  • control of this control member is such that the straws can be released only individually (one by one), at a predetermined frequency.
  • One of the side walls 22 of the hopper is provided at its lower rear angle, on its inner face, with a pin 25 which serves as a means of identifying the category of flakes it contains.
  • a position is used when the hopper 2 contains flakes of small diameter (of the order of 2 mm); the other position is used when the hopper contains flakes of large diameter (of the order of 3 mm).
  • a detection device 8 comprising a pair of detectors 80, 81 carried by a support 82.
  • Optical cables 800, 810 are connected to a control and control circuit of the machine, to send it a corresponding signal; this circuit is automatically filled in the category of flakes to be treated.
  • the machine 1 is equipped with a conveyor 3 which consists of a rotary barrel consisting of a pair of coaxial disks 30, 31, with a horizontal and transverse axis 300. They are carried by a hub 301 driven in rotation, via a belt transmission 302, by an electric motor M (see in particular figures 3 and 4 ).
  • a conveyor 3 which consists of a rotary barrel consisting of a pair of coaxial disks 30, 31, with a horizontal and transverse axis 300. They are carried by a hub 301 driven in rotation, via a belt transmission 302, by an electric motor M (see in particular figures 3 and 4 ).
  • This motor is a motor operating step by step, variable speed and amplitude and adjustable.
  • transverse bar of square section with truncated corners, disposed in the lower zone of the hopper 2, between the guides 20.
  • This bar is rotatably mounted; it has the function of brewing straws contained in the hopper to align them well at the entrance of the outlet channels 200.
  • the pair of discs 30 - 31 is offset laterally with respect to the vertical plane of symmetry of the hopper 2.
  • distal on the left of the figure 1
  • proximal on the right of the figure 1
  • the two discs 30 and 31 are identical.
  • each series of notches being divided into eight groups of four notches.
  • the groups of large notches 90 are alternated with groups of small notches 91, and the spacing between two adjacent notches is constant over the entire periphery of the disc and independent of the notch category concerned.
  • the angular difference between the axes of the notches is 5.625 degrees.
  • center distance developed arc length
  • the value of center distance is for example 10 mm.
  • this corresponds to a disc diameter slightly greater than 200 mm.
  • Each angular range has the same developed length (arc length) ⁇ , it has small or large notches.
  • Each of the treatment stations 4, 5 and 6 also has a width substantially equal to the value ⁇ , because it is adapted to treat all the flakes housed in the notches of a range.
  • the disc 30 is pierced with an orifice 300 which, during the rotation of the disc, scrolls at each turn in front of a fixed sensor C, for example an inductive sensor.
  • Coincidence of the sensor C and the orifice 300 corresponds to a "zero" or indexed position of the disk 30, such as a given location of the disk, marked R on the figure 15 , is next to the outlet channel 200 of the hopper 2.
  • Station 4 is at a developed distance (i.e., arc length) ⁇ from this location R, while stations 5 and 6 are at a developed distance 3 ⁇ , and, respectively, 5 ⁇ of it.
  • a developed distance i.e., arc length
  • the large and small notches 90, 91 have a flared entry 901, respectively 910, which facilitates the centering and the penetration of a flake p1 of large diameter (arrow i) and, respectively, a flake p2 small diameter (arrow j). They have a bottom zone 901, respectively 911, which is substantially semi-cylindrical and capable of gripping and retaining the flake p1 and p2 ( Figures 17A and 18A ).
  • the figure 2 shows the presence of fixed ramps 72 (bordering the discs 30 and 31), the role of which is to gradually push each straw that has left the hopper to embed it well in its receiving slot.
  • the operating stations 4, 5 and 6 are arranged respectively substantially at the upper part of the barrel, towards the middle of its upper descending portion and towards the middle of its downward portion.
  • the barrel brings successively to each of these stations a group of four straws, previously taken out of the hopper, then stops a certain time, of course sufficient for the operation of the longest three can be completed.
  • the operation performed at station 4 is illustrated on the figure 10 .
  • an injection head comprising an axially movable slider provided with four hollow needles 42 adapted to penetrate each inside the proximal end of a flake p.
  • This liquid L is contained in a suitable bottle 41, integrated or not into the machine, and pressurized by means of a pressure source SP.
  • This pressure is relatively low, indicative of the order of 20 millibars (2000 Pa).
  • the bottle 41 is connected to the needles 42 by means of flexible conduits 410, via solenoid valves 400.
  • the double arrow F symbolizes the reciprocating movement of the slider 40 in order to introduce the needles 42 into the straws and to remove them once the desired dose of liquid has been deposited therein.
  • the volume of this dose is a function of the opening time of the solenoid valves 400 and the pressure used to discharge the liquid L.
  • the operation performed at station 5 is illustrated on the figure 11 .
  • This item includes two complementary tools located at the proximal and distal ends of the straws, the references of which are respectively assigned index a and b.
  • the proximal tooling comprises an axially movable slider 50a whose movements are symbolized by the double arrow Ga.
  • This slide carries four hollow needles 52a able to penetrate each without play (that is to say in a sealed manner, or virtually airtight) in the proximal end portion of a straw p, in which a was previously deposited a drop of liquid L.
  • the seed S is contained in a container 51, integrated or not into the machine, and connected to the needles 52a by means of flexible conduits 510a, via clamping devices electromagnetically actuated conduits or clamps 511a.
  • the distal tooling comprises an axially movable slider 50b, whose movements are symbolized by the double arrow Gb.
  • This slide carries four hollow needles 52b able to penetrate each without play (that is to say, in a sealed manner, or substantially airtight) in the distal end portion of a straw p.
  • the needles 52b are connected by means of flexible conduits 510b, via electromagnetically actuated clamps 511b, to a vacuum source SV.
  • the filling of the flakes is thus done by suction of the seed at the distal end, through their porous plug b.
  • the seed S penetrates into each straw through the proximal end and gradually pushes the drop g to the other end, so that it comes to the end of the race soak the plug b.
  • the value of the depression and the opening time of the clamps 511a and 511b are chosen so as to optimize the time required to fill the flakes.
  • the Figures 12 and 13 represent ultrasonic welding tooling of the proximal end of the flakes, which is located at station 6.
  • This tooling includes a sonotrode 61 and an anvil 60.
  • These two elements comprise two sets of four additional indentations, one 610A - 600A for welding small diameter p flakes, the other 610B - 600B for welding large diameter p flakes.
  • the sonotrode 61 can be moved closer to and away from the anvil 60 by means of a suitable control member, such as a jack for example, as symbolized by the double arrow H, in order to crush the end of the straw to welding and to release it after welding.
  • a suitable control member such as a jack for example, as symbolized by the double arrow H, in order to crush the end of the straw to welding and to release it after welding.
  • the imprints of a given category are spaced apart by a value e which is equal to the pitch of the notches, ie 10 mm for example.
  • the two series are alternated, so that the distance between a small and a large footprint is equal to e / 2, 5 mm for example.
  • the machine is provided with a pair of profiled ramps 150, 151 located on the edges of the disks 30, respectively 31, in the downward zone corresponding to this station 6 (see FIG. figure 1 ).
  • the ramp 150 situated on the proximal side is thus shaped as it gradually makes the flakes come out of their notch 9, on the disk 30, a little before they reach the station 6. They are therefore retained only by their end opposite which is embedded in a notch of the disk 31.
  • the proximal portion of the flakes has a certain flexibility which favors their proper centering in the impressions of the welding tools and improves the reliability of the operation.
  • the ramp 151 ensures the subsequent extraction (after welding) of the distal end of the flakes, out of the notches of the disc 31, so that the flakes are then completely released and fall under the effect of the gravitation in the receptacle 100.
  • a calculator controls the operation of the machine, in particular the control of the motor M rotating the barrel, the control of the means 70 for actuating the lever 7, in synchronism with the rotation of the barrel, as well as the tools present at the stations 5, 6 and 7.
  • the levers 7 occupy a position such that their end 701, symbolized by a segment on the figure 19 each closes an outlet channel 200 of the hopper.
  • a hopper 2 was set up on the machine and it was filled with a batch of p2 straws of small diameter.
  • the flakes are oriented so that their distal end, provided with a stopper, is turned towards the disc 31.
  • the detector 8 recognizes this "small diameter" category, and sends the computer 83 a corresponding information signal.
  • the computer also controls, if necessary, the movement of the welding tools 61-60 so that they are placed in the position suitable for closing flakes of small diameter.
  • the computer drives the latter so that it rotates the disc 30 (and therefore the entire barrel), as symbolized by the arrow W1 on the figure 19 , until the orifice 300 comes next to the sensor C.
  • the motor is then temporarily stopped, in the "zero" position of the disk.
  • the R mark is in a favorable position for flaking p2, since it corresponds to the first notch of a group of four small notches.
  • the operation can then begin.
  • the computer controls the intermittent advance, small step, the barrel, and the alternating opening and closing of the shutter 701, so that four flakes p2 are placed one after the other in the first group of small notches.
  • the fixed ramp 72 which has been mentioned above ensures a progressive but complete embedding of each straw in the notches.
  • This "small step” is equal to the value of the spacing between notches; it corresponds to a rotation of angle ⁇ (ie 5,625 °) of the barrel 3.
  • the computer controls the closure of the shutter 701 and the advance of the barrel 3, a big step.
  • This "big step” is equal to the value of the spacing ⁇ of a slot range; it corresponds to a rotation of angle 4 ⁇ of the barrel 3, ie 22.5 °.
  • a third phase the motor M is stopped for a time sufficient for the operation of introducing a drop of liquid L can be done correctly in each flake p2.
  • This process comprising a step advance phase (with empty glitter distribution), a step advance phase, and a stop phase, is renewed a first time so that a new group of empty glitter arrives at station 4 and the glitter group processed at station 4 arrives at station 5.
  • the process is renewed a second time so that a new group of empty straws arrives at station 4, that the group of straws that have just been processed at station 4 arrives at station 5, and that the group of sequins that come from to be completed at station 5 arrives at station 6.
  • the process is renewed a third time so that a new group of empty straws arrives at station 4, that the group of straws that have just been processed at station 4 arrives at station 5, that the group of sequins that come from to be filled at station 5 arrives at station 6, and the group of flakes that have just been welded to station 6 is ejected and collected in the receptacle 100.
  • the cruising speed is thus reached, and this process is thus repeated until the quantity of seed, which comes from a given animal, contained in the container 51 and distributed at station 5 is exhausted.
  • a volume of semen corresponding to a bull ejaculate can fill between 400 and 550 flakes approximately.
  • the diameter of the new needles is adapted to the category of the new batch of straws that will be treated.
  • the computer changes the positioning of the welding tools of a half-step (e / 2).
  • the cylinder is printed an additional rotation corresponding to the angle of a range of notches, or 22.5 °, so that it is the first notch of a range of large notches that comes vis-à-vis from the outlet 200 of the hopper.
  • the reference 73 on the figures 2 and 3 designates a glitter output detector out of the hopper.
  • such a machine is capable of processing about 240 straws per minute.
  • notches are not necessarily the same as those implemented on the barrel that has just been described. More than two sets of notches of different sizes could be provided, for example three series of notches making it possible to treat three categories of flakes of different diameters.
  • the barrel instead of consisting of a pair of coaxial discs, could consist of a grooved cylindrical drum, having two series (or more) of grooves of different width arranged along generatrices of the drum.
  • the carrier is not necessarily a barrel; it could include a grooved endless carpet or a pair of endless belts with notches.

Description

La présente invention concerne une machine pour remplir de semence des paillettes d'insémination artificielle.The present invention relates to a machine for filling seeds with artificial insemination flakes.

La semence est une semence animale, par exemple bovine, telle que du sperme de taureau dilué.The seed is an animal seed, for example bovine, such as diluted bull semen.

Elle concerne plus précisément une telle machine, du genre comportant une trémie de stockage des paillettes vides, un poste de remplissage des paillettes, ainsi qu'un dispositif de transport pourvu d'organes de réception et de maintien des paillettes et apte à acheminer des paillettes prélevées dans la trémie pour les présenter au poste de remplissage.It relates more specifically to such a machine, of the kind comprising a hopper for storing empty straws, a straw filling station, and a transport device provided with flake receiving and holding members and suitable for conveying flakes. taken from the hopper to present them at the filling station.

Des machines de ce type sont décrites par exemple dans les documents FR-2 700 313 et US 4 478 261 , selon lesquels le transporteur est un barillet rotatif rainuré et CH 533 542 selon lequel le transporteur est constitué de plusieurs bandes sans fin mobiles, également rainurées.Machines of this type are described for example in the documents FR-2 700 313 and US 4,478,261 , according to which the conveyor is a grooved rotary drum and CH 533 542 according to which the conveyor consists of several moving endless belts, also grooved.

WO 2009/044043 et "SpermNotes - The International A1 Newsletter from Minitüb No 10/2005, 17 octobre 2005" concerne également des machines dans lesquelles le transporteur comporte une alternance de logements de taille différente. WO 2009/044043 and "SpermNotes - The International A1 Newsletter from Minitúb No. 10/2005, October 17, 2005" also relates to machines in which the carrier comprises alternating housing of different sizes.

Les rainures assurent la réception des paillettes issues de la trémie, leur transfert au poste de remplissage, ainsi que leur maintien durant le remplissage.The grooves ensure the reception of flakes from the hopper, their transfer to the filling station, and their maintenance during filling.

Les transporteurs fonctionnent pas à pas, de sorte qu'une paillette, ou un groupe de paillettes, est immobilisé au poste de remplissage durant cette opération.The carriers operate step by step, so that a straw, or a group of flakes, is immobilized at the filling station during this operation.

Une telle machine est généralement adaptée au remplissage de paillettes dont l'une des deux extrémités, dite distale, est obturée par un bouchon initialement perméable à l'air, mais apte à devenir étanche lorsqu'il est imbibé d'un liquide. Le bouchon est par exemple constitué d'une poudre d'alcool polyvinylique intercalée entre deux tampons de matière fibreuse.Such a machine is generally suitable for filling straws, one of the two ends, said distal, is closed by a plug initially permeable to air, but able to become sealed when soaked with a liquid. The stopper consists for example of a polyvinyl alcohol powder interposed between two fibrous material pads.

Le poste de remplissage comprend des moyens d'introduction de semence à l'extrémité opposée, ou « proximale », des paillettes, ainsi que des moyens d'aspiration de la semence faisant par leur extrémité distale, à travers les bouchons poreux.The filling station comprises means for introducing seed at the opposite or "proximal" end, straws, as well as suction means for the seed making their distal end through the porous plugs.

Au contact de la semence, ou d'une certaine quantité de liquide intermédiaire non spermicide, conformément aux enseignements du FR 2 810 535 , le bouchon durcit et devient imperméable, obturant de manière étanche l'extrémité distale.In contact with the seed, or a certain amount of non-spermicidal intermediate liquid, in accordance with the teachings of the FR 2,810,535 , the plug hardens and becomes impervious, sealingly sealing the distal end.

En aval du poste de remplissage, se trouve un poste de fermeture de l'extrémité proximale des paillettes, cette fermeture se faisant en général par soudage par ultrasons.Downstream of the filling station is a closure station for the proximal end of the flakes, this closure being generally by ultrasonic welding.

Après remplissage et fermeture, les paillettes sont libérées du transporteur et recueillies dans un réceptacle ad hoc.After filling and closing, the flakes are released from the carrier and collected in an ad hoc receptacle.

Elles sont ensuite congelées en vue d'une utilisation ultérieure.They are then frozen for later use.

Les paillettes couramment utilisées sont des tubes fins cylindriques, en matière plastique flexible et transparente, telle que le PVC (chlorure de polyvinyle) notamment.The flakes commonly used are thin cylindrical tubes made of flexible and transparent plastic material, such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride) in particular.

La majorité des paillettes disponibles sur le marché ont une longueur de 133 mm, et il existe deux catégories de paillettes de différents diamètres, à savoir des paillettes ayant un diamètre de l'ordre de 2 mm (en pratique 1,95 mm) et des paillettes ayant un diamètre de l'ordre de 3 mm (en pratique 2,85 mm).The majority of straws available on the market have a length of 133 mm, and there are two categories of straws of different diameters, namely straws having a diameter of the order of 2 mm (in practice 1.95 mm) and flakes having a diameter of the order of 3 mm (in practice 2.85 mm).

Un objectif principal de l'invention est de proposer une machine du genre décrit ci-dessus à caractère polyvalent, qui soit capable de traiter ces deux catégories de paillettes, sans que le passage de l'une à l'autre des catégories n'entraîne pour l'opérateur d'intervention significative.A main objective of the invention is to propose a machine of the kind described above of polyvalent nature, which is capable of processing these two categories of glitter, without the passage of the one to the other categories entails for the significant intervention operator.

Un autre objectif de l'invention est de proposer une machine compacte, fiable, facile à utiliser et susceptible de travailler à cadence élevée.Another object of the invention is to provide a machine that is compact, reliable, easy to use and capable of working at a high rate.

Cette machine est adaptée pour traiter au moins deux catégories de paillettes ayant des diamètres différents, les organes de réception et de maintien des paillettes dont est équipé le transporteur étant subdivisés en au moins deux séries distinctes pouvant être mises en oeuvre sélectivement, les organes de l'une des deux séries étant conformés pour s'adapter à des paillettes de grand diamètre, tandis que les organes de l'autre série sont conformés pour s'adapter à des paillettes de petit diamètre.This machine is adapted to treat at least two categories of flakes having different diameters, the flake receiving and holding members of which the carrier is equipped being subdivided into at least two distinct series that can be selectively used, one of the two series being shaped to fit flakes of large diameter, while the members of the other series are shaped to fit small flakes.

Il convient de signaler qu'on connaît déjà, par le document FR-2 564 064 , un dispositif d'alimentation pour une machine à remplir des tubes. Il s'agit d'un dispositif à chaînes, apte à transporter des tubes de diamètres différents. A cet effet, les chaînes de transport comportent des organes de réception qui sont constitués par une paire de plaquettes à écartement variable. Lorsqu'on change de diamètre de tube, il est nécessaire de régler cet écartement, en jouant sur les positions relatives de deux chaînes adjacentes.It should be noted that we already know, by the document FR-2 564 064 , a feeding device for a machine to fill tubes. It is a chain device, able to transport tubes of different diameters. For this purpose, the transport chains comprise receiving members which consist of a pair of spaced-apart wafers. When changing the tube diameter, it is necessary to adjust this spacing, playing on the relative positions of two adjacent chains.

Dans cette réalisation connue, l'ensemble des organes récepteurs est utilisé pour le transport, quel que soit le diamètre des tubes concernés.In this known embodiment, the set of receiving members is used for transport, regardless of the diameter of the tubes concerned.

Selon l'invention, ledit transporteur est sans fin, et chaque série d'organes d'une catégorie donnée est composée de plusieurs groupes formés d'un certain nombre d'organes adjacents, les groupes d'une catégorie donnée étant alternés avec ceux de l'autre, le poste de remplissage étant conçu pour remplir simultanément le lot de paillettes supporté par un groupe d'organes adjacents, et la machine comporte un moteur électrique piloté par un calculateur et fonctionnant pas à pas, configuré pour entraîner le transporteur avec des phases d'avance successives et réitérées, d'un petit pas égal à la valeur d'entraxe entre deux organes adjacents, puis d'un grand pas, d'amplitude multiple de celle du petit pas, puis d'une phase d'arrêt.According to the invention, said transporter is endless, and each series of organs of a given category is composed of several groups formed of a number of adjacent organs, the groups of a given category being alternated with those of the other, the filling station being designed to simultaneously fill the batch of flakes supported by a group of adjacent members, and the machine comprises an electric motor controlled by a computer and operating stepwise, configured to drive the carrier with successive and repeated phases of advance, of a small step equal to the value of spacing between two adjacent organs, then of a big step, of amplitude multiple of that of the small step, then of a stopping phase .

Selon d'autres caractéristiques avantageuses et non limitatives de l'invention :

  • les groupes des deux catégories possèdent le même nombre d'organes ;
  • lesdits d'organes sont des rainures ou des encoches dans lesquelles les paillettes sont encastrées ;
  • l'entraxe entre les rainures ou les encoches est constant sur toute la longueur du transporteur, et indépendant de sa catégorie ;
  • la machine comporte un moteur électrique piloté par un calculateur et fonctionnant pas à pas, apte à entraîner le transporteur avec des phases d'avance successives et réitérées, d'un petit pas, puis d'un grand pas, d'amplitude multiple de celle du petit pas, puis d'une phase d'arrêt ;
  • le transporteur est un barillet rotatif disposé en sortie de trémie et constitué de deux disques coaxiaux solidaires l'un de l'autre, et portant à leur périphérie lesdits organes de réception et de maintien des paillettes ;
  • ladite trémie comporte des moyens de distribution une à une des paillettes, qui sont synchronisés avec l'avance du transporteur ;
  • ladite trémie est amovible et comporte des moyens d'identification de la catégorie des paillettes qu'elle contient, tandis que la machine est équipée de moyens de détection aptes à coopérer avec lesdits moyens d'identification lors de la mise en place de la trémie, afin de déterminer automatiquement la catégorie des paillettes à traiter ;
  • lesdits moyens de détection sont connectés à un circuit de contrôle et de commande du moteur d'entraînement du transporteur, de manière à indexer la position de celui-ci en début d'opération, de telle sorte que soient actifs les organes de réception et de maintien des paillettes qui sont adaptés à leur diamètre, les autres étant en revanche inactifs ;
  • la machine est adaptée au remplissage de paillettes dont l'une des deux extrémités, dite distale, est obturée par un bouchon initialement poreux, mais apte à devenir étanche lorsqu'il est imbibé d'un liquide, et cette machine comporte un poste disposé en amont du poste de remplissage, ce poste étant adapté pour introduire une petite quantité de liquide non spermicide et non adhérente dans les paillettes, par leur extrémité opposée, dite « proximale » ;
  • ledit poste de remplissage comprend des moyens d'introduction de semence à ladite extrémité proximale des paillettes, ainsi que des moyens d'aspiration de la semence et, le cas échéant, de la petite quantité de liquide introduite précédemment dans les paillettes, cette aspiration se faisant par leur extrémité distale, à travers les bouchons ;
  • la machine comporte un poste de soudage par ultrasons de l'extrémité proximale des paillettes, situé en aval du poste de remplissage ;
  • ce poste de soudage comporte une sonotrode associée à une enclume, qui sont pourvues d'empreintes complémentaires aptes à enserrer l'extrémité proximale des paillettes, ces empreintes étant subdivisées en deux groupes alternés respectivement adaptés au soudage de paillettes de petit diamètre et de paillettes de grand diamètre, des moyens de commande étant prévus pour déplacer conjointement la sonotrode et l'enclume afin de rendre l'un des deux groupes d'empreintes actif, et l'autre inactif, en fonction de la catégorie de paillettes à traiter ;
  • la machine, qui comporte un transporteur consistant en un barillet rotatif disposé en sortie de trémie et constitué de deux disques coaxiaux solidaires l'un de l'autre, et portant à leur périphérie des encoches de réception et de maintien des paillettes, est pourvue de deux rampes fixes ainsi profilées qu'elles assurent, l'une l'extraction de l'extrémité proximale des paillettes hors des encoches de l'un des disques, juste avant que les paillettes ne parviennent au poste de soudage et l'autre l'extraction de l'extrémité distale des paillettes hors des encoches de l'autre disque après que les paillettes ont quitté le poste de soudage, de sorte que les paillettes remplies et soudées tombent alors dans un réceptacle ;
  • ledit transporteur est un barillet rotatif disposé en sortie de trémie et constitué de deux disques coaxiaux solidaires l'un de l'autre, dont l'écartement mutuel est sensiblement inférieur à la longueur des paillettes, et portant chacun à leur périphérie 64 encoches de réception et de maintien des paillettes, chaque encoche comprenant une paroi de fond sensiblement semi-circulaire et une embouchure évasée facilitant le centrage des paillettes, lesdites encoches étant subdivisées en deux séries de 32 encoches adaptées à des diamètres différents, à savoir des grandes encoches aptes à recevoir des paillettes ayant un diamètre externe de l'ordre de 3 mm, et des petites encoches aptes à recevoir des paillettes ayant un diamètre externe de l'ordre de 2 mm, chaque série d'encoches étant répartie en huit groupes de 4 encoches, et les groupes de grandes encoches étant alternés avec les groupes de petites encoches, l'entraxe entre deux encoches voisines étant constant sur toute la périphérie du disque et indépendant de la catégorie d'encoche concernée, cet entraxe étant avantageusement de l'ordre de 10 mm.
According to other advantageous and nonlimiting features of the invention:
  • groups in both categories have the same number of organs;
  • said members are grooves or notches in which the flakes are embedded;
  • the distance between the grooves or the notches is constant over the entire length of the conveyor, and independent of its category;
  • the machine comprises an electric motor driven by a computer and operating step by step, able to drive the carrier with successive and repeated phases of advance, a small step, then a large step, amplitude multiple of that the small step, then a stop phase;
  • the carrier is a rotary barrel disposed at the hopper outlet and consisting of two coaxial discs secured to one another, and carrying at their periphery said flake receiving and holding members;
  • said hopper comprises means of distribution one by one straws, which are synchronized with the advance of the carrier;
  • said hopper is removable and includes means for identifying the category of flakes it contains, while the machine is equipped with detection means able to cooperate with said identification means during the introduction of the hopper, to automatically determine the category of flakes to be treated;
  • said detection means are connected to a control and control circuit of the drive motor of the conveyor, so as to index the position of the latter at the beginning of the operation, so that the organs receiving and maintaining flakes that are adapted to their diameter, the others being on the other hand inactive;
  • the machine is suitable for filling flakes whose one end, said distal end, is closed by an initially porous plug, but able to become sealed when soaked with a liquid, and this machine comprises a station disposed in upstream of the filling station, this station being adapted to introduce a small amount of non-spermicidal and non-adherent liquid into the flakes, by their opposite end, called "proximal";
  • said filling station comprises means for introducing seed to said proximal end of the straws, as well as means for suctioning the seed and, if appropriate, the small quantity of liquid introduced previously into the straws, this suction is making by their distal end, through the caps;
  • the machine comprises an ultrasonic welding station of the proximal end of the straws, located downstream of the filling station;
  • this welding station comprises a sonotrode associated with an anvil, which are provided with complementary impressions capable of gripping the proximal end of the flakes, these impressions being subdivided into two alternating groups respectively adapted to the welding of flakes of small diameter and flakes of large diameter, control means being provided for moving together the sonotrode and the anvil to make one of the two active impression groups, and the other inactive, depending on the category of flakes to be treated;
  • the machine, which comprises a conveyor consisting of a rotary barrel disposed at the hopper outlet and consisting of two coaxial disks integral with each other, and carrying at their periphery notches for receiving and maintaining flakes, is provided with two fixed and profiled ramps they ensure, one extraction of the proximal end of the flakes out of the notches of one of the discs, just before the flakes reach the welding station and the other the extracting the distal end of the flakes out of the notches of the other disc after the flakes have left the welding station, so that the filled and welded flakes then fall into a receptacle;
  • said conveyor is a rotating barrel disposed at the hopper outlet and consisting of two coaxial discs integral with each other, the spacing of which is substantially less than the length of the flakes, and each carrying at their periphery 64 notches for receiving and keeping glitter, each notch comprising a substantially semicircular bottom wall and a flared mouth facilitating the centering of the flakes, said notches being subdivided into two series of 32 notches adapted to different diameters, namely large notches able to receive flakes having an external diameter of the order of 3 mm, and small notches suitable for receiving flakes having an external diameter of the order of 2 mm, each series of notches being divided into eight groups of 4 notches, and the groups of large notches being alternating with the groups of small notches, the spacing between two adjacent notches being constant over the entire periphery of the disc and independent of the notch category concerned, this spacing being advantageously of the order of 10 mm.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description suivante d'un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention.Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention.

Cette description est faite en référence aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue générale, de face, de la machine ;
  • les figures 2 et 3 sont des vues en coupe verticale selon les plans référencés respectivement II et III sur la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue en coupe horizontale selon le plan référencé IV-IV sur la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 5 est une vue en coupe verticale selon le plan référencé V-V sur la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 6 est une vue générale, de dessus, de la machine ;
  • la figure 7 est un détail montrant, vue de côté, la trémie mise en place sur la machine ;
  • les figures 8 et 9 sont des vues de détail en coupe selon le plan brisé VIII-VIII de la figure 7, se rapportant à deux trémies contenant des paillettes de catégorie différente ;
  • la figure 10 est une vue schématique du poste d'introduction d'un liquide non spermicide dans les paillettes ;
  • la figure 11 est une vue schématique du poste servant à remplir les paillettes de semence ;
  • la figure 12 est un détail qui représente les outils de soudage par ultrasons d'une extrémité des paillettes ;
  • la figure 13 est une vue en coupe selon le plan XIII-XIII de la figure 12 ;
  • la figure 14 est une vue de côté, en coupe verticale, d'une trémie en place sur la machine, cette vue étant destinée à montrer les moyens d'obturation du canal de sortie de la trémie ;
  • la figure 15 est un schéma illustrant la configuration du barillet équipant la machine ;
  • la figure 16 est une vue partielle, à grande échelle, qui représente la périphérie d'un disque à encoches constitutif de ce barillet ;
  • les figures 17 et 17A sont des détails représentant l'insertion d'une paillette de grand diamètre dans une encoche, respectivement au cours de sa mise en place et après sa mise en place ;
  • les figures 18 et 18A sont des détails représentant l'insertion d'une paillette de petit diamètre dans une encoche, respectivement au cours de sa mise en place et après sa mise en place ;
  • les figures 19, 19A et 19B sont des schémas illustrant la prise en charge, par le barillet, de paillettes de petit diamètre en sortie de trémie.
This description is made with reference to the appended drawings in which:
  • the figure 1 is a general view, from the front, of the machine;
  • the figures 2 and 3 are views in vertical section according to the plans respectively referenced II and III on the figure 1 ;
  • the figure 4 is a horizontal sectional view according to the plane referenced IV-IV on the figure 1 ;
  • the figure 5 is a vertical sectional view according to the plane referenced VV on the figure 1 ;
  • the figure 6 is a general view, from above, of the machine;
  • the figure 7 is a detail showing, viewed from the side, the hopper placed on the machine;
  • the Figures 8 and 9 are detail sectional views according to the broken plan VIII-VIII of the figure 7 , referring to two hoppers containing flakes of different categories;
  • the figure 10 is a schematic view of the station for introducing a non-spermicidal liquid into the flakes;
  • the figure 11 is a schematic view of the station used to fill the flakes of seed;
  • the figure 12 is a detail that represents the ultrasonic welding tools of one end of the flakes;
  • the figure 13 is a sectional view according to plan XIII-XIII of the figure 12 ;
  • the figure 14 is a side view, in vertical section, of a hopper in place on the machine, this view being intended to show the closing means of the outlet channel of the hopper;
  • the figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the barrel equipping the machine;
  • the figure 16 is a partial view, on a large scale, which represents the periphery of a disc with notches constituting this barrel;
  • the Figures 17 and 17A are details showing the insertion of a large diameter straw in a notch, respectively during its introduction and after its introduction;
  • the Figures 18 and 18A are details showing the insertion of a small diameter straw in a notch, respectively during its introduction and after its introduction;
  • the figures 19 , 19A and 19B are diagrams illustrating the handling, by the barrel, small flakes out of hopper output.

La machine 1 telle qu'illustrée notamment sur les figures 1 à 6 comprend un certain nombre d'appareils et d'équipements dont on fera état seulement des principaux, qui ont un rapport direct avec la présente invention, afin de ne pas alourdir inutilement la description.The machine 1 as illustrated in particular on Figures 1 to 6 comprises a number of devices and equipment which will be reported only major, which have a direct relationship with the present invention, so as not to unnecessarily burden the description.

Elle comporte un bâti fixe 10 apte à supporter une trémie amovible et interchangeable 2 contenant des paillettes, un barillet transporteur rotatif 3, un poste 4 d'introduction d'un liquide non spermicide dans les paillettes, un poste 5 servant à remplir les paillettes de semence, un poste 6 de soudage par ultrasons d'une extrémité des paillettes et un réceptacle 100 recueillant les paillettes remplies et soudées.It comprises a fixed frame 10 adapted to support a removable and interchangeable hopper 2 containing flakes, a rotatable carrier barrel 3, a station 4 for introducing a non-spermicidal liquid into the flakes, a station 5 serving to fill the flakes with seed, an ultrasonic welding station 6 at one end of the flakes and a receptacle 100 collecting the flakes filled and welded.

La trémie 2 destinée à contenir des paillettes à remplir a la forme générale d'une boîte parallélépipédique rectangle, ouverte sur le dessus et dont le fond est matérialisé par une paire de guides rectilignes (tiges plates) parallèles inclinés 20. La largeur de cette boîte est très légèrement supérieure à la longueur des paillettes, lesquelles sont placées par lot dans la trémie sur les guides 20, perpendiculairement à ceux-ci.The hopper 2 intended to contain flakes to be filled has the general shape of a rectangular parallelepiped box, open on the top and whose bottom is materialized by a pair of parallel linear guides (flat rods) inclined 20. The width of this box is very slightly greater than the length of the straws, which are placed batchwise in the hopper on the guides 20, perpendicular to them.

Sur la figure 14, la référence 26 désigne deux tiges transversales servant d'entretoises pour les guides 20 et assurant leur fixation aux parois latérales 22 de la trémie.On the figure 14 , reference 26 designates two transverse rods serving as spacers for the guides 20 and ensuring their attachment to the side walls 22 of the hopper.

A l'avant de la trémie (sur la gauche de la figure 14), est montée une paire de tiges plates verticales 21 disposées chacune dans le même plan vertical que l'un des guides. Chaque tige 21 est articulée en partie supérieure autour d'un axe 210 porté par une paroi 22. Un système de guidage à téton/lumière 212 limite l'amplitude de cette articulation. En sa zone centrale, le levier 21 est muni d'un becquet 211 dirigé vers l'avant.At the front of the hopper (on the left of the figure 14 ), is mounted a pair of vertical flat rods 21 each disposed in the same vertical plane as one of the guides. Each rod 21 is articulated in the upper part about an axis 210 carried by a wall 22. A pin / light guide system 212 limits the amplitude of this joint. In its central zone, the lever 21 is provided with a spoiler 211 directed towards the front.

La portion d'extrémité avant de chaque guide 20 est plus inclinée que sa partie principale, et la portion d'extrémité inférieure de chaque levier 21 est biseautée, de telle sorte que son bord inférieur possède la même inclinaison.The front end portion of each guide 20 is more inclined than its main portion, and the lower end portion of each lever 21 is tapered, so that its lower edge has the same inclination.

Lorsque la trémie est retirée de la machine, le levier 21 est légèrement incliné vers l'arrière par rapport à la verticale, sous l'effet de son propre poids, et son bord inférieur biseauté vient en appui contre la portion avant du guide 20.When the hopper is removed from the machine, the lever 21 is slightly inclined backwards relative to the vertical, under the effect of its own weight, and its beveled lower edge bears against the front portion of the guide 20.

Ainsi la sortie des paillettes (qui ont tendance à descendre le long des tiges) hors de la trémie est empêchée.Thus the exit of flakes (which tend to descend along the rods) out of the hopper is prevented.

En revanche, pour mettre en place une trémie sur la machine, on la positionne entre deux joues latérales 11 solidaires du bâti 10. La trémie 2 est munie, à l'extérieur de chacune de ses parois latérale 22, d'une paire de tétons de centrage et de retenue 220, 221, adaptés pour se loger dans des encoches évasées, ouvertes vers le haut, ménagées dans lesdites joues 11.However, to set up a hopper on the machine, it is positioned between two lateral cheeks 11 integral with the frame 10. The hopper 2 is provided, on the outside of each of its side walls 22, a pair of nipples centering and retaining means 220, 221, adapted to be housed in open upwardly flared notches in said cheeks 11.

Ainsi, après mise en place, la trémie est retenue par ces tétons, qui sont en appui au fond des encoches, dans une position bien définie, illustrée sur la figure 7.Thus, after placement, the hopper is retained by these nipples, which are supported at the bottom of the notches, in a well-defined position, illustrated on the figure 7 .

Durant cette mise en place, les deux becquets 211 viennent prendre appui contre le bord supérieur d'une cloison transversale 112 solidaire du bâti, ce qui a pour effet de redresser légèrement les leviers 21, et libérer la sortie de trémie ; en effet, les leviers 21 sont alors verticaux et leur bord inférieur biseauté est parallèle à la partie avant d'un guide 20, ménageant un petit canal 200 dans lequel les paillettes peuvent descendre et se placer l'une contre l'autre à la queue leu leu.During this installation, the two spoilers 211 bear against the upper edge of a transverse partition 112 secured to the frame, which has the effect of slightly straighten the levers 21, and release the hopper outlet; indeed, the levers 21 are then vertical and their beveled lower edge is parallel to the front portion of a guide 20, leaving a small channel 200 in which the flakes can descend and be placed against each other at the tail their leu.

Les deux canaux 200 forment une goulotte de sortie des paillettes.The two channels 200 form a glitter outlet chute.

Toutefois, la sortie des paillettes est alors contrôlée par une paire de leviers 7, reliés par des entretoises, articulés chacun autour d'un axe transversal 700 solidaire du bâti ; ils possèdent une extrémité supérieure libre 701 en forme doigt.However, the output flakes is then controlled by a pair of levers 7, connected by spacers, each articulated around a transverse axis 700 integral with the frame; they have a free upper end 701 in finger shape.

Un organe de commande 70, tel qu'un vérin ou un électroaimant, est relié à une traverse qui relie les extrémités inférieures de ce jeu de leviers et peut leur imprimer un mouvement oscillant, symbolisé par la double flèche Y sur la figure 14, pour les faire pivoter conjointement, dans un sens ou dans l'autre, autour de l'axe 700.A control member 70, such as a jack or an electromagnet, is connected to a cross member which connects the lower ends of this set of levers and can impart to them an oscillating movement, symbolized by the double arrow Y on the figure 14 , to rotate them together, in one direction or the other, around the axis 700.

Des systèmes de guidage à téton/lumière 702 limitent l'amplitude de cette articulation.Nail / light guide systems 702 limit the amplitude of this joint.

Chaque levier 7 est positionné vers l'intérieur de la trémie, par rapport à un guide 20, tout près de celui-ci.Each lever 7 is positioned towards the inside of the hopper, relative to a guide 20, close to it.

Selon l'état de l'organe de commande 70 (rétracté ou en extension), les doigts 701 obturent ou, au contraire, libèrent les deux canaux de sortie 200 de la trémie.Depending on the state of the control member 70 (retracted or extended), the fingers 701 close off or, on the contrary, release the two outlet channels 200 from the hopper.

Le pilotage de cet organe de commande est tel que les paillettes ne peuvent être libérées qu'individuellement (une à une), à une fréquence déterminée.The control of this control member is such that the straws can be released only individually (one by one), at a predetermined frequency.

L'une des parois latérales 22 de la trémie est munie, au niveau de son angle inférieur arrière, sur sa face interne, d'un pion 25 qui fait office de moyen d'identification de la catégorie des paillettes qu'elle contient.One of the side walls 22 of the hopper is provided at its lower rear angle, on its inner face, with a pin 25 which serves as a means of identifying the category of flakes it contains.

Comme on le voit sur les figures 8 et 9, la position du pion - référencé 25'- sur la figure 9 est différente de celle du pion 25 de la figure 8.As we see on the Figures 8 and 9 , the position of the pion - referenced 25'- on the figure 9 is different from that of pawn 25 of the figure 8 .

Dans le mode de réalisation illustré, ils sont décalés en hauteur.In the illustrated embodiment, they are offset in height.

Une position est utilisée lorsque la trémie 2 contient des paillettes de petit diamètre (de l'ordre de 2 mm) ; l'autre position est utilisée lorsque la trémie contient des paillettes de grand diamètre (de l'ordre de 3 mm).A position is used when the hopper 2 contains flakes of small diameter (of the order of 2 mm); the other position is used when the hopper contains flakes of large diameter (of the order of 3 mm).

Sur le bâti 10 est monté un dispositif de détection 8 comprenant une paire de détecteurs 80, 81 portés par un support 82. Se sont des détecteurs à fibre optique, placés en regard des positions susceptibles d'être prises par les pions 25 et, respectivement 25'.On the frame 10 is mounted a detection device 8 comprising a pair of detectors 80, 81 carried by a support 82. There are optical fiber detectors placed opposite the positions likely to be taken by the pins 25 and respectively 25.

Des câbles optiques 800, 810 sont connectés à un circuit de commande et de contrôle de la machine, pour lui adresser un signal correspondant ; ce circuit est donc renseigné automatiquement sur la catégorie des paillettes à traiter.Optical cables 800, 810 are connected to a control and control circuit of the machine, to send it a corresponding signal; this circuit is automatically filled in the category of flakes to be treated.

La machine 1 est équipée d'un transporteur 3 qui consiste en un barillet rotatif constitué d'une paire de disques coaxiaux 30, 31, d'axe horizontal et transversal 300. Ils sont portés par un moyeu 301 entraîné en rotation, via une courroie de transmission 302, par un moteur électrique M (voir notamment figures 3 et 4).The machine 1 is equipped with a conveyor 3 which consists of a rotary barrel consisting of a pair of coaxial disks 30, 31, with a horizontal and transverse axis 300. They are carried by a hub 301 driven in rotation, via a belt transmission 302, by an electric motor M (see in particular figures 3 and 4 ).

Ce moteur est un moteur fonctionnant pas à pas, à vitesse et amplitude variables et réglables.This motor is a motor operating step by step, variable speed and amplitude and adjustable.

Comme on le voit en particulier sur les figures 2 et 3, sur lesquelles le sens de rotation du barillet est symbolisé par la flèche W, la zone supérieure ascendante de ce barillet est sensiblement tangente à la sortie des canaux 200.As can be seen in particular on figures 2 and 3 , on which the direction of rotation of the cylinder is symbolized by the arrow W, the upper upward zone of this cylinder is substantially tangent to the output of the channels 200.

Ces mêmes figures montrent, en coupe, un barreau transversal, de section carrée à angles tronqués, disposé dans la zone inférieure de la trémie 2, entre les guides 20. Ce barreau est monté rotatif ; il a pour fonction de brasser les paillettes contenues dans la trémie pour bien les aligner à l'entrée des canaux de sortie 200.These same figures show, in section, a transverse bar, of square section with truncated corners, disposed in the lower zone of the hopper 2, between the guides 20. This bar is rotatably mounted; it has the function of brewing straws contained in the hopper to align them well at the entrance of the outlet channels 200.

Comme on le voit sur la figure 1, sur laquelle les paillettes portent la référence p, la paire de disques 30 - 31 est décalée latéralement par rapport au plan vertical de symétrie de la trémie 2.As we see on the figure 1 , on which the flakes bear the reference p, the pair of discs 30 - 31 is offset laterally with respect to the vertical plane of symmetry of the hopper 2.

De plus, leur écartement mutuel est sensiblement inférieur à la largeur de la trémie (et donc à la longueur des paillettes p).In addition, their spacing is substantially less than the width of the hopper (and therefore the length of flakes p).

Par suite de cette disposition, l'une des extrémités des paillettes, que l'on appellera « distale » (sur la gauche de la figure 1) ne déborde pas, ou déborde très peu, au-delà du disque 31 qui la retient ; en revanche, leur autre extrémité, que l'on appellera « proximale » (sur la droite de la figure 1) déborde largement au-delà du disque 30 qui la retient.As a result of this arrangement, one of the ends of the straws, which will be called "distal" (on the left of the figure 1 ) does not overflow, or overflows very little, beyond the disc 31 which holds it; on the other hand, their other end, which will be called "proximal" (on the right of the figure 1 ) extends well beyond the disc 30 which holds it.

Les deux disques 30 et 31 sont identiques.The two discs 30 and 31 are identical.

Leur plan est perpendiculaire à l'axe des paillettes contenues dans la trémie 2.Their plane is perpendicular to the axis of the flakes contained in the hopper 2.

Ils sont pourvus à leur périphérie d'une pluralité d'encoches 9 régulièrement disposées.They are provided at their periphery with a plurality of notches 9 regularly arranged.

Comme on le voit sur les figures 15 et 16, il existe deux séries d'encoches.As we see on the Figures 15 and 16 there are two sets of notches.

Dans le mode de réalisation illustré, il y a au total 64 encoches qui sont subdivisées en deux séries de trente deux encoches adaptées à des diamètres différents, à savoir des grandes encoches 90 aptes à recevoir des paillettes p ayant un diamètre externe de l'ordre de 3 mm, et des petites encoches 91 aptes à recevoir des paillettes p ayant un diamètre externe de l'ordre de 2 mm, chaque série d'encoches étant répartie en huit groupes de quatre encoches.In the illustrated embodiment, there are altogether 64 notches which are subdivided into two series of thirty two notches adapted to different diameters, namely large notches 90 able to receive p flakes having an outer diameter of the order 3 mm, and small notches 91 able to receive p flakes having an outer diameter of about 2 mm, each series of notches being divided into eight groups of four notches.

Les groupes de grandes encoches 90 sont alternés avec les groupes de petites encoches 91, et l'entraxe entre deux encoches voisines est constant sur toute la périphérie du disque et indépendant de la catégorie d'encoche concernée.The groups of large notches 90 are alternated with groups of small notches 91, and the spacing between two adjacent notches is constant over the entire periphery of the disc and independent of the notch category concerned.

Ainsi, l'écart angulaire entre les axes des encoches est de 5,625 degrés.Thus, the angular difference between the axes of the notches is 5.625 degrees.

La valeur d'entraxe (longueur d'arc de cercle développée) est par exemple de 10 mm.The value of center distance (developed arc length) is for example 10 mm.

A titre indicatif, cela correspond à un diamètre de disque légèrement supérieur à 200 mm.As an indication, this corresponds to a disc diameter slightly greater than 200 mm.

Il va de soi que les deux disques 30 et 31 sont calés sur leur moyeu de sorte que les groupes d'encoches similaires soient en correspondance.It goes without saying that the two discs 30 and 31 are wedged on their hub so that the groups of similar notches are in correspondence.

Sur la figure 15, ainsi que sur les figures 19, 19A et 19B, on a symbolisé par des plages angulaires épaisses et minces les groupes d'encoches 90 et respectivement 91 dont est pourvu l'un des disques, en l'occurrence le disque 30.On the figure 15 , as well as on figures 19 , 19A and 19B Thick and thin angular ranges have been symbolized by the notch groups 90 and 91 respectively of which one of the disks is provided, in this case the disk 30.

Chaque plage angulaire a la même longueur développée (longueur d'arc) λ, qu'elle comporte de petites ou de grandes encoches.Each angular range has the same developed length (arc length) λ, it has small or large notches.

Chacun des postes de traitement 4, 5 et 6 a également une largeur sensiblement égale à la valeur λ, car elle est adaptée pour traiter l'ensemble des paillettes logées dans les encoches d'une plage.Each of the treatment stations 4, 5 and 6 also has a width substantially equal to the value λ, because it is adapted to treat all the flakes housed in the notches of a range.

Le disque 30 est percé d'un orifice 300 qui, lors de la rotation du disque, défile à chaque tour devant un capteur fixe C, par exemple un capteur inductif.The disc 30 is pierced with an orifice 300 which, during the rotation of the disc, scrolls at each turn in front of a fixed sensor C, for example an inductive sensor.

La mise en coïncidence du capteur C et de l'orifice 300 correspond à une position « zéro » ou indexée du disque 30, telle qu'un endroit donné du disque, marqué R sur la figure 15, se trouve en regard du canal de sortie 200 de la trémie 2.Coincidence of the sensor C and the orifice 300 corresponds to a "zero" or indexed position of the disk 30, such as a given location of the disk, marked R on the figure 15 , is next to the outlet channel 200 of the hopper 2.

On suppose que cet endroit correspond à la première encoche d'un groupe de petites encoches.It is assumed that this place corresponds to the first notch of a group of small notches.

Le poste 4 se trouve à une distance développée (c'est-à-dire une longueur d'arc) λ de cet endroit R, tandis que les postes 5 et 6 se trouvent à une distance développée 3 λ, et, respectivement, 5 λ de celui-ci.Station 4 is at a developed distance (i.e., arc length) λ from this location R, while stations 5 and 6 are at a developed distance 3 λ, and, respectively, 5 λ of it.

Comme on le voit sur les figures 17 et 18, les grandes et les petites encoches 90, 91, possèdent une entrée évasée 901, respectivement 910, qui facilite le centrage et la pénétration d'une paillette p1 de grand diamètre (flèche i) et, respectivement, d'une paillette p2 de petit diamètre (flèche j). Elles possèdent une zone de fond 901, respectivement 911, sensiblement semi-cylindrique apte à enserrer et retenir convenablement la paillette p1, respectivement p2 (figures 17A et 18A).As we see on the Figures 17 and 18 the large and small notches 90, 91 have a flared entry 901, respectively 910, which facilitates the centering and the penetration of a flake p1 of large diameter (arrow i) and, respectively, a flake p2 small diameter (arrow j). They have a bottom zone 901, respectively 911, which is substantially semi-cylindrical and capable of gripping and retaining the flake p1 and p2 ( Figures 17A and 18A ).

La figure 2 montre la présence de rampes fixes 72 (bordant les disques 30 et 31), dont le rôle est de repousser progressivement chaque paillette ayant quitté la trémie pour bien l'encastrer dans son encoche réceptrice.The figure 2 shows the presence of fixed ramps 72 (bordering the discs 30 and 31), the role of which is to gradually push each straw that has left the hopper to embed it well in its receiving slot.

Comme on le voit en particulier sur la figure 2, les postes opératoires 4, 5 et 6 sont disposés respectivement sensiblement au niveau de la partie haute du barillet, vers le milieu de sa partie supérieure descendante et vers le milieu de sa partie descendante.As we see in particular on the figure 2 the operating stations 4, 5 and 6 are arranged respectively substantially at the upper part of the barrel, towards the middle of its upper descending portion and towards the middle of its downward portion.

Le barillet amène successivement à chacun de ces postes un groupe de quatre paillettes, précédemment prélevées en sortie de trémie, puis s'arrête un certain temps, suffisant bien entendu pour que l'opération la plus longue des trois puisse être menée à terme.The barrel brings successively to each of these stations a group of four straws, previously taken out of the hopper, then stops a certain time, of course sufficient for the operation of the longest three can be completed.

L'opération exécutée au poste 4 est illustrée sur la figure 10.The operation performed at station 4 is illustrated on the figure 10 .

On y traite simultanément un groupe de quatre paillettes p retenues chacune dans une paire d'encoches 9 des disques 30 et 31.At the same time, a group of four flakes is held p each retained in a pair of notches 9 of the discs 30 and 31.

Leur portion d'extrémité distale (à gauche sur la figure) est garnie intérieurement d'un bouchon poreux b.Their distal end portion (left in the figure) is lined internally with a porous plug b.

Conformément aux enseignements du FR 2 810 535 déjà cité, auquel on pourra se reporter au besoin, dans le but d'économiser de la semence, on injecte à l'extrémité proximale opposée une petite quantité de liquide non spermicide et non adhérent.In accordance with the teachings of FR 2,810,535 already cited, to which reference may be made, in order to save seed, is injected at the opposite proximal end a small amount of non-spermicidal and non-adherent liquid.

A cet effet, on utilise une tête d'injection comprenant un coulisseau mobile axialement, pourvu de quatre aiguilles creuses 42 adaptées pour pénétrer chacune à l'intérieur de l'extrémité proximale d'une paillette p. Ce liquide L est contenu dans un flacon approprié 41, intégré ou non à la machine, et pressurisé au moyen d'une source de pression SP.For this purpose, an injection head comprising an axially movable slider provided with four hollow needles 42 adapted to penetrate each inside the proximal end of a flake p. This liquid L is contained in a suitable bottle 41, integrated or not into the machine, and pressurized by means of a pressure source SP.

Cette pression est relativement faible, à titre indicatif de l'ordre de 20 millibars (2000 Pa).This pressure is relatively low, indicative of the order of 20 millibars (2000 Pa).

Le flacon 41 est connecté aux aiguilles 42 au moyen de conduits flexibles 410, via des électrovannes 400.The bottle 41 is connected to the needles 42 by means of flexible conduits 410, via solenoid valves 400.

La double flèche F symbolise le mouvement de va-et-vient du coulisseau 40 afin d'introduire les aiguilles 42 dans les paillettes et pour les en retirer une fois que la dose voulue de liquide y a été déposée.The double arrow F symbolizes the reciprocating movement of the slider 40 in order to introduce the needles 42 into the straws and to remove them once the desired dose of liquid has been deposited therein.

Le volume de cette dose est fonction de la durée d'ouverture des électrovannes 400 et de la pression mise en oeuvre pour refouler le liquide L.The volume of this dose is a function of the opening time of the solenoid valves 400 and the pressure used to discharge the liquid L.

L'opération exécutée au poste 5 est illustrée sur la figure 11.The operation performed at station 5 is illustrated on the figure 11 .

Ce poste comprend deux outillages complémentaires situés aux extrémités proximale et distale des paillettes, dont les références sont affectées respectivement de l'indice a et b.This item includes two complementary tools located at the proximal and distal ends of the straws, the references of which are respectively assigned index a and b.

L'outillage proximal comprend un coulisseau 50a axialement mobile, dont les déplacements sont symbolisés par la double flèche Ga.The proximal tooling comprises an axially movable slider 50a whose movements are symbolized by the double arrow Ga.

Ce coulisseau porte quatre aiguilles creuses 52a aptes à pénétrer chacune sans jeu (c'est-à-dire de manière étanche, ou pratiquement étanche, à l'air) dans la portion d'extrémité proximale d'une paillette p, dans laquelle a été préalablement déposée une goutte g du liquide L.This slide carries four hollow needles 52a able to penetrate each without play (that is to say in a sealed manner, or virtually airtight) in the proximal end portion of a straw p, in which a was previously deposited a drop of liquid L.

La semence S est contenue dans un récipient 51, intégré ou non à la machine, et connecté aux aiguilles 52a au moyen de conduits flexibles 510a, via des dispositifs de pincement des conduits, ou clamps 511a, actionnés par électroaimant.The seed S is contained in a container 51, integrated or not into the machine, and connected to the needles 52a by means of flexible conduits 510a, via clamping devices electromagnetically actuated conduits or clamps 511a.

De manière similaire, l'outillage distal comprend un coulisseau 50b axialement mobile, dont les déplacements sont symbolisés par la double flèche Gb.Similarly, the distal tooling comprises an axially movable slider 50b, whose movements are symbolized by the double arrow Gb.

Ce coulisseau porte quatre aiguilles creuses 52b aptes à pénétrer chacune sans jeu (c'est-à-dire de manière étanche, ou pratiquement étanche, à l'air) dans la portion d'extrémité distale d'une paillette p.This slide carries four hollow needles 52b able to penetrate each without play (that is to say, in a sealed manner, or substantially airtight) in the distal end portion of a straw p.

Les aiguilles 52b sont reliées au moyen de conduits flexibles 510b, via des clamps 511b actionnés par électroaimant, à une source de vide SV.The needles 52b are connected by means of flexible conduits 510b, via electromagnetically actuated clamps 511b, to a vacuum source SV.

Le remplissage des paillettes se fait ainsi par aspiration de la semence à l'extrémité distale, à travers leur bouchon poreux b. La semence S pénètre dans chaque paillette par l'extrémité proximale et repousse progressivement la goutte g vers l'autre extrémité, de sorte que celle-ci vient en fin de course imbiber le bouchon b.The filling of the flakes is thus done by suction of the seed at the distal end, through their porous plug b. The seed S penetrates into each straw through the proximal end and gradually pushes the drop g to the other end, so that it comes to the end of the race soak the plug b.

La valeur de la dépression et le temps d'ouverture des clamps 511a et 511b sont choisis de façon à optimiser le temps nécessaire au remplissage des paillettes.The value of the depression and the opening time of the clamps 511a and 511b are chosen so as to optimize the time required to fill the flakes.

Les figures 12 et 13 représentent un outillage de soudage par ultrasons de l'extrémité proximale des paillettes, qui se trouve au poste 6.The Figures 12 and 13 represent ultrasonic welding tooling of the proximal end of the flakes, which is located at station 6.

Cet outillage comprend une sonotrode 61 et une enclume 60.This tooling includes a sonotrode 61 and an anvil 60.

Ces deux éléments comportent deux séries de quatre empreintes complémentaires, l'une 610A - 600A destinée au soudage de paillettes p de petit diamètre, l'autre 610B - 600B destinée au soudage de paillettes p de grand diamètre.These two elements comprise two sets of four additional indentations, one 610A - 600A for welding small diameter p flakes, the other 610B - 600B for welding large diameter p flakes.

La sonotrode 61 peut être rapprochée et écartée de l'enclume 60 au moyen d'un organe de commande approprié, tel qu'un vérin par exemple, comme symbolisé par la double flèche H, afin d'écraser l'extrémité de la paillette pour le soudage et pour la libérer après soudage.The sonotrode 61 can be moved closer to and away from the anvil 60 by means of a suitable control member, such as a jack for example, as symbolized by the double arrow H, in order to crush the end of the straw to welding and to release it after welding.

Les empreintes d'une catégorie donnée (grandes ou petites) sont espacées d'une valeur e qui est égale au pas des encoches, soit 10 mm par exemple.The imprints of a given category (large or small) are spaced apart by a value e which is equal to the pitch of the notches, ie 10 mm for example.

Les deux séries sont alternées, de sorte que l'entraxe entre une petite et une grande empreinte est égale à e/2, soit 5 mm par exemple.The two series are alternated, so that the distance between a small and a large footprint is equal to e / 2, 5 mm for example.

Grâce à cet agencement, il suffit de déplacer verticalement et conjointement la paire d'outils 60 - 61 sur une course de e/2 en fonction de la catégorie des paillettes concernées pour que ces dernières se présentent correctement en vis-à-vis du groupe d'empreintes adéquat lorsqu'elles arrivent au poste 6.With this arrangement, it is sufficient to move vertically and jointly the pair of tools 60 - 61 on a run of e / 2 depending on the category of flakes involved so that the latter are presented correctly vis-à-vis the group adequate footprint when arriving at station 6.

Il convient de noter que la machine est pourvu d'une paire de rampes profilées 150, 151 situées sur les bords des disques 30, respectivement 31, dans la zone descendante qui correspond à ce poste 6 (voir figure 1).It should be noted that the machine is provided with a pair of profiled ramps 150, 151 located on the edges of the disks 30, respectively 31, in the downward zone corresponding to this station 6 (see FIG. figure 1 ).

La rampe 150 située du côté proximal est ainsi conformée qu'elle fait progressivement sortir les paillettes de leur encoche 9, sur le disque 30, un peu avant qu'elles n'arrivent au poste 6. Elles ne sont donc retenues que par leur extrémité opposée qui est encastrée dans une encoche du disque 31.The ramp 150 situated on the proximal side is thus shaped as it gradually makes the flakes come out of their notch 9, on the disk 30, a little before they reach the station 6. They are therefore retained only by their end opposite which is embedded in a notch of the disk 31.

Grâce à cet arrangement, la partie proximale des paillettes possède une certaine souplesse qui favorise leur bon centrage dans les empreintes de l'outillage de soudage et améliore la fiabilité de l'opération.Thanks to this arrangement, the proximal portion of the flakes has a certain flexibility which favors their proper centering in the impressions of the welding tools and improves the reliability of the operation.

La rampe 151, quant à elle, assure l'extraction ultérieure (après le soudage) de l'extrémité distale des paillettes, hors des encoches du disque 31, de sorte que les paillettes sont alors complètement libérées et tombent sous l'effet de la gravitation dans le réceptacle 100.The ramp 151, meanwhile, ensures the subsequent extraction (after welding) of the distal end of the flakes, out of the notches of the disc 31, so that the flakes are then completely released and fall under the effect of the gravitation in the receptacle 100.

Un calculateur, référencé 83 sur la figure 19, pilote le fonctionnement de la machine, en particulier la commande du moteur M faisant tourner le barillet, la commande des moyens 70 d'actionnement du levier 7, en synchronisme avec la rotation du barillet, ainsi que les outillages présents aux postes 5, 6 et 7.A calculator, referenced 83 on the figure 19 , controls the operation of the machine, in particular the control of the motor M rotating the barrel, the control of the means 70 for actuating the lever 7, in synchronism with the rotation of the barrel, as well as the tools present at the stations 5, 6 and 7.

En référence aux figures 19, 19A et 19B, nous allons expliquer de quelle manière se fait l'indexage automatique du barillet en fonction de la catégorie des paillettes concernées, et comment s'opère le traitement des paillettes.With reference to figures 19 , 19A and 19B , we will explain how is the automatic indexing of the barrel according to the category of flakes involved, and how is the treatment of flakes.

On suppose qu'au départ le barillet se trouve immobilisé dans une position angulaire quelconque.It is assumed that initially the barrel is immobilized in any angular position.

Les leviers 7 occupent une position telle que leur extrémité 701, symbolisée par un segment sur la figure 19, obture chacune un canal de sortie 200 de la trémie.The levers 7 occupy a position such that their end 701, symbolized by a segment on the figure 19 each closes an outlet channel 200 of the hopper.

On a mis en place sur la machine une trémie 2 qui est garnie d'un lot de paillettes p2 de petit diamètre.A hopper 2 was set up on the machine and it was filled with a batch of p2 straws of small diameter.

Dans ce lot, les paillettes sont orientées de telle sorte que leur extrémité distale, munie d'un bouchon, soit tournée du côté du disque 31.In this batch, the flakes are oriented so that their distal end, provided with a stopper, is turned towards the disc 31.

Le détecteur 8 reconnaît cette catégorie « petit diamètre », et adresse au calculateur 83 un signal d'information correspondant.The detector 8 recognizes this "small diameter" category, and sends the computer 83 a corresponding information signal.

Ce sont par conséquent les groupes de petites encoches 91 qui doivent être utilisées pour traiter ce lot de paillettes.It is therefore the groups of small notches 91 that must be used to process this batch of flakes.

Le calculateur commande par ailleurs, s'il y a lieu, le déplacement des outils de soudage 61- 60 afin qu'ils se placent dans la position adaptée à la fermeture de paillettes de petit diamètre.The computer also controls, if necessary, the movement of the welding tools 61-60 so that they are placed in the position suitable for closing flakes of small diameter.

A la mise en route du moteur M, le calculateur pilote ce dernier pour qu'il fasse tourner le disque 30 (et donc le barillet entier), comme symbolisé par la flèche W1 sur la figure 19, jusqu'à ce que l'orifice 300 vienne en regard du capteur C.At the start of the motor M, the computer drives the latter so that it rotates the disc 30 (and therefore the entire barrel), as symbolized by the arrow W1 on the figure 19 , until the orifice 300 comes next to the sensor C.

Le moteur est alors temporairement arrêté, dans la position « zéro » du disque.The motor is then temporarily stopped, in the "zero" position of the disk.

Or, dans cette position, illustrée sur la figure 19A, le repère R se trouve dans une position favorable au prélèvement de paillettes p2, puisqu'il correspond à la première encoche d'un groupe de quatre petites encoches.However, in this position, illustrated on the figure 19A , the R mark is in a favorable position for flaking p2, since it corresponds to the first notch of a group of four small notches.

L'opération peut alors commencer.The operation can then begin.

Dans une première phase, le calculateur pilote l'avance intermittente, à petit pas, du barillet, ainsi que l'ouverture et la fermeture alternées de l'obturateur 701, de sorte que quatre paillettes p2 soient placées l'une après l'autre dans le premier groupe de petites encoches. La rampe fixe 72 dont il a été fait état plus haut assure un encastrement progressif mais complet de chaque paillette dans les encoches.In a first phase, the computer controls the intermittent advance, small step, the barrel, and the alternating opening and closing of the shutter 701, so that four flakes p2 are placed one after the other in the first group of small notches. The fixed ramp 72 which has been mentioned above ensures a progressive but complete embedding of each straw in the notches.

Ce « petit pas » est égal à la valeur de l'entraxe entre encoches ; il correspond à une rotation d'angle α (soit 5,625°) du barillet 3.This "small step" is equal to the value of the spacing between notches; it corresponds to a rotation of angle α (ie 5,625 °) of the barrel 3.

Dans une deuxième phase, le calculateur pilote la fermeture de l'obturateur 701 ainsi que l'avance du barillet 3, d'un grand pas.In a second phase, the computer controls the closure of the shutter 701 and the advance of the barrel 3, a big step.

Ce « grand pas » est égal à la valeur de l'entraxe λ d'une plage d'encoches ; il correspond à une rotation d'angle 4α du barillet 3, soit 22,5°.This "big step" is equal to the value of the spacing λ of a slot range; it corresponds to a rotation of angle 4α of the barrel 3, ie 22.5 °.

Durant cette phase, symbolisée par la flèche W2 sur la figure 19B, la plage de grandes encoches non utilisées passe à vide sous la sortie de trémie 200, tandis que le groupe de quatre paillettes p2 arrive au poste 4, et s'y positionne, chaque paillette se plaçant en vis-à-vis d'une aiguille 42.During this phase, symbolized by the arrow W2 on the figure 19B the range of large unused notches passes empty under the hopper outlet 200, while the group of four flakes p2 arrives at the station 4, and is positioned there, each flake being placed vis-à-vis a needle 42.

Dans une troisième phase, le moteur M est arrêté, pendant un temps suffisant pour que l'opération d'introduction d'une goutte de liquide L puisse se faire correctement dans chacune des paillettes p2.In a third phase, the motor M is stopped for a time sufficient for the operation of introducing a drop of liquid L can be done correctly in each flake p2.

Ce processus comprenant une phase d'avance à petits pas (avec distribution de paillettes vides), une phase d'avance à grand pas, et une phase d'arrêt, est renouvelé une première fois de sorte qu'un nouveau groupe de paillettes vides arrive au poste 4 et que le groupe de paillettes traitées au poste 4 arrive au poste 5.This process comprising a step advance phase (with empty glitter distribution), a step advance phase, and a stop phase, is renewed a first time so that a new group of empty glitter arrives at station 4 and the glitter group processed at station 4 arrives at station 5.

Les opérations dans ces deux postes se font simultanément durant la phase d'arrêt du barillet.The operations in these two stations are done simultaneously during the stopping phase of the barrel.

Le processus est renouvelé une deuxième fois de sorte qu'un nouveau groupe de paillettes vides arrive au poste 4, que le groupe de paillettes qui viennent d'être traitées au poste 4 arrive au poste 5, et que le groupe de paillettes qui viennent d'être remplies au poste 5 arrive au poste 6.The process is renewed a second time so that a new group of empty straws arrives at station 4, that the group of straws that have just been processed at station 4 arrives at station 5, and that the group of sequins that come from to be completed at station 5 arrives at station 6.

Les opérations dans ces trois postes se font simultanément durant la phase d'arrêt du barillet.The operations in these three stations are done simultaneously during the stopping phase of the barrel.

Le processus est renouvelé une troisième fois de sorte qu'un nouveau groupe de paillettes vides arrive au poste 4, que le groupe de paillettes qui viennent d'être traitées au poste 4 arrive au poste 5, que le groupe de paillettes qui viennent d'être remplies au poste 5 arrive au poste 6, et que le groupe de paillettes qui viennent d'être soudées au poste 6 soit éjecté et recueilli dans le réceptacle 100.The process is renewed a third time so that a new group of empty straws arrives at station 4, that the group of straws that have just been processed at station 4 arrives at station 5, that the group of sequins that come from to be filled at station 5 arrives at station 6, and the group of flakes that have just been welded to station 6 is ejected and collected in the receptacle 100.

Le régime de croisière est ainsi atteint, et ce processus est ainsi réitéré jusqu'à épuisement de la quantité de semence, qui provient d'un animal donné, contenue dans le récipient 51 et distribuée au poste 5.The cruising speed is thus reached, and this process is thus repeated until the quantity of seed, which comes from a given animal, contained in the container 51 and distributed at station 5 is exhausted.

A titre indicatif, un volume de semence correspondant à un éjaculat de taureau permet de remplir entre 400 et 550 paillettes environ.As an indication, a volume of semen corresponding to a bull ejaculate can fill between 400 and 550 flakes approximately.

Après l'opération, on substitue aux outils ayant été en contact avec la semence (aiguilles, électrovannes et conduits flexibles notamment) aux postes 4 et 5 de nouveaux outils stérilisés.After the operation, we replace the tools that have been in contact with the seed (needles, solenoid valves and flexible conduits in particular) at stations 4 and 5 new sterilized tools.

Le diamètre des nouvelles aiguilles est adapté à la catégorie du nouveau lot de paillettes que l'on va traiter.The diameter of the new needles is adapted to the category of the new batch of straws that will be treated.

Dans le cas où les nouvelles paillettes sont également de petit diamètre, l'opération se déroule de la même façon que celle qui vient d'être décrite.In the case where the new flakes are also of small diameter, the operation proceeds in the same way as that just described.

Si on a affaire à des paillettes de grand diamètre, ce que reconnaît automatiquement le calculateur 83 grâce au détecteur 8, le calculateur modifie le positionnement des outils de soudage d'un demi-pas (e/2).If we are dealing with flakes of large diameter, which automatically recognizes the computer 83 through the detector 8, the computer changes the positioning of the welding tools of a half-step (e / 2).

De plus, l'indexage initial du barillet est modifié.In addition, the initial indexing of the barrel is modified.

A partir de la position représentée sur la figure 19A, on imprime au barillet une rotation supplémentaire correspondant à l'angle d'une plage d'encoches, soit 22,5°, de sorte que ce soit la première encoche d'une plage de grandes encoches qui vient en vis-à-vis de la sortie 200 de la trémie.From the position shown on the figure 19A , the cylinder is printed an additional rotation corresponding to the angle of a range of notches, or 22.5 °, so that it is the first notch of a range of large notches that comes vis-à-vis from the outlet 200 of the hopper.

A partir de cette position initiale, le processus se déroule exactement comme le précédent, les plages de petites encoches (non utilisées) défilant cette fois « à vide » devant la sortie de trémie durant les avances à « grand pas » du barillet.From this initial position, the process takes place exactly as the previous one, the ranges of small notches (not used) scrolling this time "empty" in front of the hopper outlet during advances to "big step" of the barrel.

La référence 73 sur les figures 2 et 3 désigne un détecteur de sortie des paillettes hors de la trémie.The reference 73 on the figures 2 and 3 designates a glitter output detector out of the hopper.

Il s'agit par exemple d'un détecteur à fibre optique apte à détecter des anomalies, en particulier la non distribution inopinée d'une paillette sur le barillet, et fournit un signal correspondant au calculateur 83, lequel provoque alors l'arrêt immédiat du moteur.This is for example an optical fiber detector capable of detecting anomalies, in particular the unexpected non-distribution of a straw on the barrel, and supplies a signal corresponding to the computer 83, which then causes the immediate shutdown of the engine.

A titre indicatif, une telle machine est capable de traiter environ 240 paillettes par minute.As an indication, such a machine is capable of processing about 240 straws per minute.

Il va de soi que le nombre et la disposition des encoches ne sont pas forcément les mêmes que ceux mis en oeuvre sur le barillet qui vient d'être décrit. On pourrait prévoir plus de deux séries d'encoches de tailles différentes, par exemple trois séries d'encoches permettant de traiter trois catégories de paillettes de diamètres différents.It goes without saying that the number and arrangement of notches are not necessarily the same as those implemented on the barrel that has just been described. More than two sets of notches of different sizes could be provided, for example three series of notches making it possible to treat three categories of flakes of different diameters.

Le barillet, au lieu d'être constitué d'une paire de disques coaxiaux, pourrait consister en un tambour cylindrique rainuré, comportant deux séries (ou plus) de rainures de largeur différentes disposées selon des génératrices du tambour.The barrel, instead of consisting of a pair of coaxial discs, could consist of a grooved cylindrical drum, having two series (or more) of grooves of different width arranged along generatrices of the drum.

Le transporteur n'est pas forcément un barillet ; il pourrait notamment s'agir d'un tapis sans fin rainuré ou d'une paire de courroies sans fin à encoches.The carrier is not necessarily a barrel; it could include a grooved endless carpet or a pair of endless belts with notches.

Claims (14)

  1. A machine for filling artificial insemination straws (p) with semen, which comprises a hopper for storing empty straws (2), a straw-filling station (5), and a transport device (3) provided with elements (9) for receiving and holding the straws (p), and configured for conveying straws taken in the hopper to present them to the filling station (5), characterised in that it is adapted for processing at least two categories of straws (p1, p2) having different diameters, said elements (9) for receiving and holding the straws being subdivided into at least two distinct series which can be employed selectively, the elements (90) of one of the two series conforming to adapt to large-diameter straws (p1), whereas the elements (91) of the other series conforming to adapt to small-diameter straws (p2), characterized in that said transporter (3) is endless, and each series of elements (90; 91) of a given category is composed of several groups formed from a certain number of adjacent elements (90; 91), the groups of a given category alternating with those of the other, the filling station (5) being designed to simultaneously fill the batch of straws supported by a group of adjacent elements, and in that it comprises an electric motor (M) controlled by a computer (83) and operating step by step, configured to drive the transporter (3) with successive and repeated phases of advance, at a low pitch equal to the value of the center distance between two adjacent elements (90, 91), then at a high pitch, of an amplitude multiple that of the low pitch, then a stop phase.
  2. The machine as claimed in Claim 1, characterised in that the groups of the two categories have the same number of elements (90; 91).
  3. The machine as claimed in Claim 1 or 2, characterised in that said elements (9) are grooves or notches in which the straws are fitted.
  4. The machine as claimed in Claim 3, characterised in that the axle spacing between the grooves or the notches (9) is constant over the entire length of the transporter, and independent of its category.
  5. The machine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the transporter (3) is a rotating barrel placed at the hopper outlet and constituted by two coaxial discs (30, 31) integral with one another, and bearing said elements (9) for receiving and holding the straws at their periphery.
  6. The machine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that said hopper (2) comprises means for (7, 70) distributing straws (p) one by one, which are synchronised with the advance of the transporter (3).
  7. The machine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that said hopper (2) is removable and comprises means (25, 25') for identification of the category of the straws which it contains, whereas the machine is equipped with detection means (8) for cooperating with said identification means (25, 25') during placing of the hopper, so as to automatically determine the category of the straws to be processed.
  8. The machine as claimed in Claim 7, characterised in that said detection means (8) are connected to a control and command circuit (83) of the drive motor (M) of the transporter (3), so as to index the position of the latter on startup, such that the elements (9) for receiving and holding the straws (p) which are adapted to their diameter are active, the others being inactive.
  9. The machine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, adapted to filling straws one of the two ends of which, so-called distal, is blocked by an initially porous stopper (b), but capable of becoming watertight when it is soaked in a liquid, characterised in that it comprises a station (4) placed upstream of the filling station (5), this station (4) being adapted to introduce a small quantity (g) of non-spermicidal and non-adherent liquid (L) into the straws, via their opposite end, the so-called "proximal" end.
  10. The machine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, adapted to filling straws whereof one of the two ends, the so-called distal end, is blocked by a stopper (b) initially permeable to air, but capable of becoming watertight when it is soaked in a liquid, characterised in that said filling station (5) comprises means (5a) for introduction of semen (S) at the opposite end, so-called "proximal", of the straws, as well as means for suctioning semen (S) and, if necessary, the small quantity (g) of liquid (L) introduced previously into the straws, this suctioning being carried out via their distal end, through the stoppers (b).
  11. The machine as claimed in Claim 9 or 10, characterised in that it comprises an ultrasound welding station (6) for the proximal end of the straws, located downstream of the filling station (5).
  12. The machine as claimed in Claim 11, characterised in that the welding station comprises a sonotrode connected to an anvil, provided with complementary indentations for gripping the proximal end of the straws, these indentations being subdivided into two alternating groups (600A - 610A; 600B - 610B) respectively adapted to the welding of small-diameter straws (p2) and large-diameter straws (p1), control means being provided to shift the sonotrode and the anvil together in order to make one of the two groups active, and the other inactive, as a function of the category of straws to be processed.
  13. The machine as claimed in Claim 11 or 12, comprising a transporter (3) consisting of a rotating barrel placed at the hopper outlet and constituted by two coaxial discs (30, 31) integral with one another, and bearing at their periphery notches (9) for receiving and holding straws, characterised in that it is provided with two fixed ramps (150, 151) profiled in such a way that one (150) ensures extraction of the proximal end of the straws from the notches (9) of one (30) of the discs, just before the straws (p) arrive at the welding station (6) and the other (151) ensures extraction of the distal end of the straws from the notches (9) of the other disc (31), after the straws (p) have left the welding station (6), such that the filled and welded straws then fall into a receptacle (100).
  14. The machine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that said transporter (3) is a rotating barrel placed at the hopper outlet and constituted by two coaxial discs (30, 31) integral with one another, whereof the mutual clearance is substantially less than the length of the straws, and each bearing at their periphery 64 notches (9) for receiving and holding straws, each notch comprising a substantially semi-circular base wall and a flared mouthpiece facilitating the centring of the straws (p), said notches being subdivided into two series of 32 notches adapted to different diameters, specifically large notches (90) for receiving straws having an external diameter of the order of 3 mm, and small notches (91) for receiving straws having an external diameter of the order of 2 mm, each series of notches being distributed into eight groups of 4 notches, and the groups of large notches (90) being alternating with the groups of small notches (91), the axle spacing between two adjacent notches being constant over the entire periphery of the disc and independent of the category of notch concerned, this axle spacing advantageously being of the order of 10 mm.
EP07820086.2A 2006-09-13 2007-09-10 Machine for filling artificial insemination straws with semen Active EP2066261B2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0607982A FR2905592B1 (en) 2006-09-13 2006-09-13 "MACHINE FOR FILLING SEED WITH ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION FLAKES"
PCT/EP2007/059465 WO2008031793A1 (en) 2006-09-13 2007-09-10 Machine for filling artificial insemination straws with semen

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2066261A1 EP2066261A1 (en) 2009-06-10
EP2066261B1 true EP2066261B1 (en) 2017-03-22
EP2066261B2 EP2066261B2 (en) 2020-01-15

Family

ID=38016740

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP07820086.2A Active EP2066261B2 (en) 2006-09-13 2007-09-10 Machine for filling artificial insemination straws with semen

Country Status (8)

Country Link
US (1) US8925289B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2066261B2 (en)
JP (1) JP5048069B2 (en)
KR (1) KR101390629B1 (en)
CN (1) CN101541262B (en)
CA (1) CA2669327C (en)
FR (1) FR2905592B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2008031793A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (15)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP5738314B2 (en) 2010-12-01 2015-06-24 一般社団法人家畜改良事業団 Artificial insemination straw
US9358091B2 (en) 2011-04-18 2016-06-07 Inguran, Llc Two-dimensional bar codes in assisted reproductive technologies
CA2888458C (en) 2012-10-18 2020-03-10 Inguran, Llc Two-dimensional bar codes in assisted reproductive technologies
FR3036947B1 (en) * 2015-06-02 2017-05-26 Imv Tech DEVICE FOR FILLING GLITTERS AND MACHINE COMPRISING SAME
FR3043990B1 (en) * 2015-11-19 2017-12-29 Imv Tech DEVICE FOR STORING ANIMAL SEMEN CONDITIONING SPRAY AND TREATMENT PLANT COMPRISING SUCH A DEVICE
FR3043995B1 (en) * 2015-11-19 2017-12-22 Imv Tech DEVICE FOR FEEDING AND POSITIONING ANIMAL SEED CONDITIONING FLAKES AND TREATMENT PLANT COMPRISING SUCH A DEVICE
US20180058773A1 (en) * 2016-08-31 2018-03-01 General Electric Company Heat Sink Assembly
FR3064173B1 (en) 2017-03-24 2019-05-03 Imv Technologies ANIMAL SEMEN CONDITIONING STRAIN TREATMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING A DEVICE FOR SUPPLYING AND POSITIONING THESE FLAKES
WO2018197407A1 (en) * 2017-04-27 2018-11-01 Sig Technology Ag Method and apparatus for applying packaging aids
WO2020166105A1 (en) * 2019-02-14 2020-08-20 株式会社ホクビ Printing system, printing method, and straw
US11419315B2 (en) * 2019-05-10 2022-08-23 Tony A. Schwager Tabletop apparatus for filling and sealing drinking straws with honey or other viscous liquids using centrifugal force
CN110182426B (en) * 2019-05-22 2024-02-13 南京新阳智能科技有限公司 Cold cutting machine for cutting plastic spoon packaging belt
KR102226328B1 (en) 2020-05-19 2021-03-11 (주)동화산업 Grating with a openable transparent cover
CN112520085B (en) * 2020-12-15 2022-04-05 武汉天楚吉因宝生物科技有限公司 Boar semen automatic filling machine
CN114348321B (en) * 2022-01-26 2023-08-04 江苏集萃药康生物科技股份有限公司 Automatic tubing equipment for animal genetic material

Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2700313A1 (en) 1993-01-14 1994-07-13 Lecointe Pascal Machine for distributing, filling and closing by welding flakes intended for artificial insemination.
US5377815A (en) 1993-03-12 1995-01-03 Arzneimittel Gmbh Apotheker Vetter & Co. Conveyor apparatus for batch treatment of objects
US20010015313A1 (en) 2000-01-31 2001-08-23 Jean-Gerard Saint-Ramon Machine for conveying and moving into position tubes, in particular straws
US20030217530A1 (en) 2002-05-21 2003-11-27 Bernd Tillack Method and apparatus for forming and/or sealing a packaging unit
US20040025475A1 (en) 2002-08-09 2004-02-12 Hamilton Kathryn M. Straw-filling device
WO2009044043A1 (en) * 2007-09-07 2009-04-09 Imv Technologies Chaff conditioning machine

Family Cites Families (60)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2575155A (en) * 1948-10-09 1951-11-13 Patent Chemicals Inc Manufacture of polyhydroxy anthraquinone sulfonic acids
US2986211A (en) * 1957-02-27 1961-05-30 Hartmann As Brdr Machine for the manufacture of articles from fiber pulp
FR1379273A (en) * 1963-12-24 1964-11-20 Automatic apparatus for orientation and storage of tubular elements such as vials in boxes or the like
US3475130A (en) * 1965-07-08 1969-10-28 Warner Lambert Pharmaceutical Sample transfer apparatus
DE1275438B (en) * 1966-02-25 1968-08-14 Karlsruhe Augsburg Iweka Self-centering holder for tubes on a tube filling and closing machine
US3452505A (en) * 1966-04-05 1969-07-01 Roderick W Hoag Method and machine for making and filling tubular containers
US3568735A (en) * 1968-06-26 1971-03-09 Cooke Eng Co Laboratory microtitration dispensing apparatus
US3687175A (en) * 1970-11-09 1972-08-29 Victor Stephen Babey Apparatus for filling thin tubular containers with a liquid
CH533542A (en) 1971-08-25 1973-02-15 Geneco Apparatus for filling tubes with liquid
US3805784A (en) * 1972-08-04 1974-04-23 R Alter Semen capsule for use with an artificial insemination applicator
US3819194A (en) * 1972-10-16 1974-06-25 Domain Ind Inc Tube holder
IT976523B (en) * 1973-01-29 1974-09-10 Cioni E FEEDING EQUIPMENT FOR MACHINES FOR HANDLING FIA LE OR OTHERWISE
US3880210A (en) * 1973-08-02 1975-04-29 Arthur J Randolph Straw charging and feeding apparatus
US3918920A (en) * 1974-01-07 1975-11-11 Beckman Instruments Inc Holder for sample containers of different sizes
US3877430A (en) * 1974-07-17 1975-04-15 Horst K Wieder Artificial insemination apparatus
US3970120A (en) * 1974-12-20 1976-07-20 Smithkline Corporation Filling machine
US4007367A (en) * 1976-02-02 1977-02-08 Rusteberg Robert K Semen thaw system
US4363205A (en) * 1976-11-08 1982-12-14 John P. Glass Packaging method
US4118914A (en) * 1977-10-25 1978-10-10 Shields Walter A Vial assembler
ES497593A0 (en) * 1979-12-10 1982-11-16 Sortimat Creuz & Co Gmbh PROCEDURE AND DEVICE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF DISPOSABLE CANNULES, WITH INCORPORATION BY FUSION OF A METAL CANNULA TUBE, IN A PLASTIC NOZZLE.
US4478261A (en) 1981-02-20 1984-10-23 Bertrand Cassou Apparatus for filling artificial insemination straws with semen
US4446960A (en) * 1981-07-09 1984-05-08 Owens-Illinois, Inc. Tubing loader
US4459864A (en) * 1981-10-19 1984-07-17 Electro-Nucleonics, Inc. Fluid loading and dispensing device
DE3305991A1 (en) * 1983-02-22 1984-08-23 Zinser Textilmaschinen Gmbh, 7333 Ebersbach DEVICE FOR GRIPING AND HOLDING A SLEEVE
FR2564064B1 (en) * 1984-05-11 1986-09-12 Kalix Dupuy IMPROVED FEEDING DEVICE FOR TUBE FILLING MACHINE
US4600120A (en) * 1984-10-19 1986-07-15 Abbott Laboratories Magazine for dispensing cartridges into an automated analyzer
US4741432A (en) * 1986-07-23 1988-05-03 Lyall Electric, Inc. Conveyor belt
SE458677B (en) * 1986-10-06 1989-04-24 Norden Packaging Mach DEVELOPING MACHINE DEVICE
IE62637B1 (en) * 1988-09-22 1995-02-22 Eolas Irish Science & Tech Apparatus for filling tubes
JPH02255415A (en) * 1989-03-29 1990-10-16 Japan Tobacco Inc Aligner for different diametral bar material
US4939884A (en) * 1989-04-14 1990-07-10 Glenn Peters Honey stick machine
US4958667A (en) * 1989-07-17 1990-09-25 R. A. Jones & Co., Inc. Tube holder for tube filling machines
US5173265A (en) * 1989-07-24 1992-12-22 Helena Laboratories Corporation Manually operated pump inserter for test tubes
US5055271A (en) * 1989-07-24 1991-10-08 Helena Laboratories Corporation Pump inserter for test tubes
JPH0429523A (en) * 1990-05-25 1992-01-31 Mitsubishi Electric Corp Current limiting circuit
FR2680101B1 (en) * 1991-08-07 1993-11-05 Robert Cassou SINGLE USE INJECTION NOZZLE FOR GLITTER FILLING MACHINE, PARTICULARLY FOR ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION OF ANIMALS AND STORAGE OF ORGANIC PRODUCTS.
JPH0672488A (en) * 1992-08-21 1994-03-15 Fujihira Kogyo Kk Liquid charger of straw tube
US5282715A (en) * 1992-10-09 1994-02-01 United States Surgical Corporation Needle transporting apparatus
US5431201A (en) * 1993-12-03 1995-07-11 Technology 2000 Incororated Robotic admixture system
FR2727163B1 (en) * 1994-11-23 1997-01-24 Imv Instr De Medecine Veterina DOSING AND FILLING DEVICE, PARTICULARLY FOR ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION OF POULTRY SPECIES AND OTHER DOSING AND FILLING APPLICATIONS
US5941366A (en) * 1996-09-19 1999-08-24 Labotix Automation, Inc. Transport system for biospecimens
FR2753367B1 (en) * 1996-09-19 1998-12-04 Lecointe Pascal STORAGE STRAW OF A LIQUID BIOLOGICAL SUBSTANCE AND FILLING METHOD THEREOF
WO1998048622A1 (en) 1997-04-30 1998-11-05 Haubrich Mark A Suspended sperm composition and method of artificial insemination
US6311831B1 (en) * 1998-09-10 2001-11-06 Polytype America Corporation Tube loading system
JP3096685B2 (en) * 1999-03-05 2000-10-10 照明 伊藤 Test tube holder
US6343690B1 (en) * 1999-10-18 2002-02-05 Coulter International Corp. Specimen carrier for automated transport system and method and apparatus for identifying same
FI116487B (en) * 1999-11-15 2005-11-30 Thermo Electron Oy Apparatus and method for the treatment of laboratory test tubes
FR2810535B1 (en) 2000-06-27 2002-10-11 Eurl Cryo Vet METHOD FOR FILLING A STORAGE FLAP WITH SEED
US6422418B1 (en) * 2000-10-05 2002-07-23 Dt Industries, Inc. Article dispensing machine and method
FI114661B (en) * 2001-04-03 2004-11-30 Thermo Clinical Labsystems Oy Tubes Scaffolding
JP4425140B2 (en) * 2002-09-03 2010-03-03 メディカル・インスティル・テクノロジーズ・インコーポレイテッド Liquid medicine bottle assembly
DE10316941A1 (en) * 2003-04-12 2004-11-11 Arzneimittel Gmbh Apotheker Vetter & Co. Ravensburg transport means
US7264113B2 (en) * 2003-11-13 2007-09-04 Hartness International, Inc. Pivotable conveyor and link
US7377401B2 (en) * 2004-04-28 2008-05-27 Edina Technical Products, Inc. Dispenser mechanism for dispensing multiple products
US20060032730A1 (en) * 2004-08-13 2006-02-16 Kaufman Paul J Belt conveyor apparatus
US7146781B1 (en) * 2004-12-06 2006-12-12 Nathan Albert Cole Apparatus and method for insertion of material into uncontaminated containers
BE1017059A3 (en) * 2005-03-21 2008-01-08 Inova Pharma Systems Gmbh METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING ADJUSTMENT.
US7325382B2 (en) * 2005-06-01 2008-02-05 R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company Method and apparatus for loading finished cigarettes into package
DE102007060442A1 (en) * 2007-12-14 2009-06-18 Herrmann Ultraschalltechnik Gmbh & Co. Kg Sonotrode with U-slot
ITBO20080234A1 (en) * 2008-04-16 2009-10-17 Marchesini Group Spa RECEPTION AND TRANSPORT OF ITEMS

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2700313A1 (en) 1993-01-14 1994-07-13 Lecointe Pascal Machine for distributing, filling and closing by welding flakes intended for artificial insemination.
US5377815A (en) 1993-03-12 1995-01-03 Arzneimittel Gmbh Apotheker Vetter & Co. Conveyor apparatus for batch treatment of objects
US20010015313A1 (en) 2000-01-31 2001-08-23 Jean-Gerard Saint-Ramon Machine for conveying and moving into position tubes, in particular straws
US20030217530A1 (en) 2002-05-21 2003-11-27 Bernd Tillack Method and apparatus for forming and/or sealing a packaging unit
US20040025475A1 (en) 2002-08-09 2004-02-12 Hamilton Kathryn M. Straw-filling device
WO2009044043A1 (en) * 2007-09-07 2009-04-09 Imv Technologies Chaff conditioning machine

Non-Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
ANONYMOUS: "SpermNotes - The International AI Newsletter from Minitüb No 10/2005", 17 October 2005 (2005-10-17), XP055202494, Retrieved from the Internet <URL:http://www.minitube.de/DE_eng/content/download/2470/97350/version/4/file/SpermNotes Bovine 2005.pdf> [retrieved on 20150715] *
SPERMNOTES - THE INTERNATIONAL AI NEWSLETTER FROM MINITÜB NO 10/2005, 17 October 2005 (2005-10-17), XP055202494, Retrieved from the Internet <URL:http://www.minitube.de/ DE _eng/eontent/download/2470/97350/version/4/ file/SpermNotes Bovine 2005.pdf>

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JP5048069B2 (en) 2012-10-17
US20100000627A1 (en) 2010-01-07
JP2010503438A (en) 2010-02-04
CN101541262B (en) 2011-11-16
KR20090074759A (en) 2009-07-07
KR101390629B1 (en) 2014-04-29
FR2905592B1 (en) 2008-11-28
FR2905592A1 (en) 2008-03-14
WO2008031793A8 (en) 2008-06-05
WO2008031793A1 (en) 2008-03-20
US8925289B2 (en) 2015-01-06
CA2669327C (en) 2014-07-22
CA2669327A1 (en) 2008-03-20
EP2066261B2 (en) 2020-01-15
EP2066261A1 (en) 2009-06-10
CN101541262A (en) 2009-09-23

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2066261B1 (en) Machine for filling artificial insemination straws with semen
EP2904369B1 (en) Tool for sampling plant material, automaton comprising same, sampling cell provided with such an automaton and sampling method
EP0385902B1 (en) Device for filling petri dishes
EP2441682B1 (en) Device for channelled distribution of tablets and method for implementing same
EP3134323B1 (en) Method and facility for filling travelling egg racks
EP0115989B1 (en) Method for automatically filling and closing containers, and machine for carrying out the method
EP3240744B1 (en) Device and method for the reliable delivery of shaped stopper elements
CH632090A5 (en) MACHINE FOR AUTOMATICALLY MONITORING THE EFFICIENCY OF CONTAINER CLOSURES.
FR2885030A1 (en) Live bird e.g. chicken, vaccination machine for poultry, has automatic treatment units whose operation is controlled by operation of conveyor having housings, for birds, that have windows permitting access to breast of bird
EP0188153B1 (en) Method and apparatus for filling and dosing flasks
FR2501624A1 (en) PROCESS FOR GROUPING, ORIENTATION AND PACKAGING OF OBJECTS AND INSTALLATION FOR CARRYING OUT SAID METHOD
FR2873894A1 (en) Automatic egg injection procedure incorporates detection of remaining eggs after removal of those that are unfertilised or contain dead embryos
EP3378436B1 (en) Installation for treating straws for packaging animal semen, comprising a device for supplying and positioning said straws
FR2946956A1 (en) Channeled tablets distribution device for tablets conditioning machine, has upstream channels associated in arrangement permitting to turn role in communication with downstream channels corresponding to downstream ramp
FR2997928A1 (en) OBJECT DISTRIBUTION MACHINE WITH BULK FEED
EP3645429A1 (en) Method and device for managing a unit sorting module
FR2543793A1 (en) METHOD AND DEVICE FOR INTRODUCING SUBSTANTIALLY CYLINDRICAL PLANTS INTO A CONTAINER
BE879828R (en) APPARATUS FOR AUTOMATICALLY CANNING CYLINDRICAL OBJECTS AND A BOX, PARTICULARLY FOR SUCH AN APPARATUS
FR2462343A1 (en) Transfer installation for packages - moves packages from supply shaft to compartments of moving conveyor with drivers and back stops
FR2600038A1 (en) METHOD FOR THE DETECTION OF EMPTY OR INCORRECTLY FILLED CONTAINERS BY A SOLID PRODUCT, ESPECIALLY FOOD, IN A CARROUSEL FILLING MACHINE AND SYSTEM FOR CARRYING OUT SAID METHOD
FR2904814A1 (en) METHOD AND DEVICE FOR THE CONTROLLED DISTRIBUTION OF OBJECTS INDUCED IN BULK
FR2505779A1 (en) Tube filling and sealing machine - where dose of radioactive soln. is fed into tube, which is then sealed at both ends
FR2513110A1 (en) Filling artificial insemination straws - by hand operated pump
FR2617799A1 (en) METHOD AND AUTOMATIC MACHINE FOR GROUPING AND STORING CONTAINERS SUCH AS POTS OR THE LIKE
FR2582618A1 (en) Installation for placing ampoules or similar products inside pre-shaped packages

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20090409

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MT NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: AL BA HR MK RS

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20110322

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
TPAC Observations filed by third parties

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNTIPA

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: CRYO VET

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20161014

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MT NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 876936

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20170415

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: FRENCH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602007050311

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20170322

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170623

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 876936

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20170322

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170622

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 11

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: SK

Ref legal event code: T3

Ref document number: E 24406

Country of ref document: SK

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170724

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170722

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R026

Ref document number: 602007050311

Country of ref document: DE

PLBI Opposition filed

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009260

PLAX Notice of opposition and request to file observation + time limit sent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNOBS2

26 Opposition filed

Opponent name: MINITUEB GMBH

Effective date: 20171208

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PLBB Reply of patent proprietor to notice(s) of opposition received

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNOBS3

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20170910

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20170930

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170910

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170930

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170910

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170930

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170910

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170930

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 12

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20070910

APBM Appeal reference recorded

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNREFNO

APBP Date of receipt of notice of appeal recorded

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNNOA2O

APAH Appeal reference modified

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSCREFNO

APBU Appeal procedure closed

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNNOA9O

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170322

PUAH Patent maintained in amended form

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009272

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: PATENT MAINTAINED AS AMENDED

27A Patent maintained in amended form

Effective date: 20200115

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B2

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MT NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R102

Ref document number: 602007050311

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20170322

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: SK

Ref legal event code: T5

Ref document number: E 24406

Country of ref document: SK

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SK

Payment date: 20210817

Year of fee payment: 15

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: SK

Ref legal event code: MM4A

Ref document number: E 24406

Country of ref document: SK

Effective date: 20220910

P01 Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered

Effective date: 20230522

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220910

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20230809

Year of fee payment: 17

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20230911

Year of fee payment: 17